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How to Walk Away
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Best Fiction (2018)Margaret Jacobsen has a bright future ahead of her: a fiancé she adores, her dream job, and the promise of a picture-perfect life just around the corner. Then, suddenly, on what should have been one of the happiest days of her life, everything she worked for is taken away in one tumultuous moment.
In the hospital and forced to face the possibility that nothing will ever be the same again, Margaret must figure out how to move forward on her own terms while facing long-held family secrets, devastating heartbreak, and the idea that love might find her in the last place she would ever expect.
In the hospital and forced to face the possibility that nothing will ever be the same again, Margaret must figure out how to move forward on her own terms while facing long-held family secrets, devastating heartbreak, and the idea that love might find her in the last place she would ever expect.
302 pages, Hardcover
First published May 15, 2018
About the author
Katherine Center
20 books21.7k followershttps://katherinecenter.com/about/
https://www.instagram.com/katherinece...
BookPage calls Katherine Center “the reigning queen of comfort reads.” She’s the New York Times bestselling author of eleven novels, including The Bodyguard, Hello Stranger, Things You Save in a Fire, and her summer 2024 book, The Rom-Commers. Katherine writes laugh-and-cry books: bittersweet romantic comedies about how life knocks us down—and how we get back up. She’s been compared to both Jane Austen and Nora Ephron, and the Dallas Morning News calls her stories, “satisfying in the most soul-nourishing way.” The Netflix movie adaptation of her novel Happiness for Beginners—starring Ellie Kemper and Luke Grimes—just hit the Global Top Ten in 81 countries, and the movie of her novel The Lost Husband was a surprise Netflix sensation in 2020, hitting number one and landing in their top 25 movies for the year. Her books have made countless Best-Of lists—at Audible, BookBub, and Book of the Month, as well as Goodreads' Best Books of the Year, and Amazon's yearly Top 100 books. Emily Henry calls The Bodyguard “my perfect 10 of a book,” and Jodi Picoult says of Things You Save in a Fire, “Just read it, and thank me later.” Katherine lives in her hometown of Houston, Texas, with her husband, two almost-grown teenagers, and their fluffy-but-fierce dog.
https://www.instagram.com/katherinece...
BookPage calls Katherine Center “the reigning queen of comfort reads.” She’s the New York Times bestselling author of eleven novels, including The Bodyguard, Hello Stranger, Things You Save in a Fire, and her summer 2024 book, The Rom-Commers. Katherine writes laugh-and-cry books: bittersweet romantic comedies about how life knocks us down—and how we get back up. She’s been compared to both Jane Austen and Nora Ephron, and the Dallas Morning News calls her stories, “satisfying in the most soul-nourishing way.” The Netflix movie adaptation of her novel Happiness for Beginners—starring Ellie Kemper and Luke Grimes—just hit the Global Top Ten in 81 countries, and the movie of her novel The Lost Husband was a surprise Netflix sensation in 2020, hitting number one and landing in their top 25 movies for the year. Her books have made countless Best-Of lists—at Audible, BookBub, and Book of the Month, as well as Goodreads' Best Books of the Year, and Amazon's yearly Top 100 books. Emily Henry calls The Bodyguard “my perfect 10 of a book,” and Jodi Picoult says of Things You Save in a Fire, “Just read it, and thank me later.” Katherine lives in her hometown of Houston, Texas, with her husband, two almost-grown teenagers, and their fluffy-but-fierce dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 12,116 reviews
June 8, 2018
“When you don’t know what to do for yourself, do something for somebody else”
Sometimes a book comes along that makes my heart skip a beat. This is one of those times. I may not have come across this novel but a friend had just finished reading it and loved it. She thought I might enjoy it too.
She was right. I loved it!
Margaret Jacobsen has worked hard all of her life and things are starting to pay off. She’s dating an awesome guy, she’s going to be starting a great new job, and on a night out with her boyfriend, Chip, she has a strong feeling that things are about to get even better.
We’ve all heard that saying that life can change in a moment, or the blink of an eye. And for Margaret, nothing could be truer when the greatest day of her life quickly turns into the worst day of her life. Her life is forever changed.
“They say your life flashes before your eyes, but it wasn’t my life as I’d lived it that I saw. It was the life I’d been waiting for. The one I’d never get a chance to live.”
“How to Walk Away” really was a fantastic read populated with so many awesome characters. Some good guys…some villains…but all well-developed and entertaining! Margaret is such a great character. Her personality won me over instantly. Her habit of filling the quiet with very strange but hilarious comments was just one of the things I loved about her.
Heart-breaking one moment and laugh out loud funny the next ( “Mes jambons sont eclatés” ). This was an incredibly inspiring read that made me look at a few things in my own life in a different way.
Katherine Center writes with honesty and includes all of the messy parts. For me this was more than just a good story….it was fantastic! Strained relationships and family secrets, many things were easy to relate to. A story about strength, determination, love and so much more. The plot held my interest from start to finish and the characters captured my heart. I may have been able to see where things were going but the journey was just so much fun. Witty, loving, and optimistic, I started reading slower because I didn’t want it to end.
“Carry the sorrow when we have to, and absolutely savor the joy when we can”
I’m looking forward to reading whatever comes next from Katherine Center. She has written five other novels about love and family. You can bet I’ll be checking out those books out too.
I'd like to thank St. Martin’s Press for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
Sometimes a book comes along that makes my heart skip a beat. This is one of those times. I may not have come across this novel but a friend had just finished reading it and loved it. She thought I might enjoy it too.
She was right. I loved it!
Margaret Jacobsen has worked hard all of her life and things are starting to pay off. She’s dating an awesome guy, she’s going to be starting a great new job, and on a night out with her boyfriend, Chip, she has a strong feeling that things are about to get even better.
We’ve all heard that saying that life can change in a moment, or the blink of an eye. And for Margaret, nothing could be truer when the greatest day of her life quickly turns into the worst day of her life. Her life is forever changed.
“They say your life flashes before your eyes, but it wasn’t my life as I’d lived it that I saw. It was the life I’d been waiting for. The one I’d never get a chance to live.”
“How to Walk Away” really was a fantastic read populated with so many awesome characters. Some good guys…some villains…but all well-developed and entertaining! Margaret is such a great character. Her personality won me over instantly. Her habit of filling the quiet with very strange but hilarious comments was just one of the things I loved about her.
Heart-breaking one moment and laugh out loud funny the next ( “Mes jambons sont eclatés” ). This was an incredibly inspiring read that made me look at a few things in my own life in a different way.
Katherine Center writes with honesty and includes all of the messy parts. For me this was more than just a good story….it was fantastic! Strained relationships and family secrets, many things were easy to relate to. A story about strength, determination, love and so much more. The plot held my interest from start to finish and the characters captured my heart. I may have been able to see where things were going but the journey was just so much fun. Witty, loving, and optimistic, I started reading slower because I didn’t want it to end.
“Carry the sorrow when we have to, and absolutely savor the joy when we can”
I’m looking forward to reading whatever comes next from Katherine Center. She has written five other novels about love and family. You can bet I’ll be checking out those books out too.
I'd like to thank St. Martin’s Press for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
August 26, 2023
The romance subplot in this book was an absolute 5 star winner.
If you’re going through a big life change or something difficult, this book will both destroy and uplift you at the same time. So good luck! I loved it.
If you’re going through a big life change or something difficult, this book will both destroy and uplift you at the same time. So good luck! I loved it.
July 12, 2018
*2.5 stars*
Quotes alluding to a charming, witty and heartbreaking read from some of the heavy-hitters in the women’s fiction genre made picking up How to Walk Away a no-brainer for this reader. Finding the strength and tenacity to overcome a tragedy, along with a budding romance . . . how could this bleeding heart not love this book? Believe me, I tried. I really did.
The approach Katherine Center takes in telling Margaret’s story of perseverance is what I feel differentiates this book from so many others, but it also makes it sort of contradictory in tone. Margaret is a twenty-something on the brink of having everything she ever wanted and through no fault of her own, loses it all in one fell swoop. It’s quite devastating actually. Yet, the author opts for a fluff-fest, laden with self-help lines and a saccharine tone to brighten the mood. It was a bit much, even for this optimist.
I’m guessing here, but I think the overly-positive approach to the topic driving this plot will divide readers. There will be those who undoubtedly appreciate the lightness the author brings to such heavy subject matter and there will be others—like myself—who struggle to connect emotionally and yearn for something deeper, more meaningful and authentic.
Piecing together what happens after the major plot point is revealed is pretty simple, so I’m not going to dissect things here, but I will say Margaret’s new reality lacked some credibility. Not only were there inconsistencies surrounding her condition that seemed to take shape depending on the situation she found herself in, but the absence of any questioning on her part—especially in the beginning—felt off. It’s not a far stretch to think anyone in her situation would demand answers, immediately.
What I found to be even more inauthentic was the dialogue, behavior and non-stop drama brought on by the secondary characters. They were not an easy bunch for me to like or even understand. The author relied heavily on their exaggerated antics to carry the story forward, which only served to highlight how weak the heart of the plot truly was. Compounded by the predictability, the author’s ease in glossing over pivotal points, the number of coincidences and that ending . . . do I even have to say it? How to Walk Away has not landed among my favorites.
*Thank you to St. Martin’s Press for providing me with a review copy.
Quotes alluding to a charming, witty and heartbreaking read from some of the heavy-hitters in the women’s fiction genre made picking up How to Walk Away a no-brainer for this reader. Finding the strength and tenacity to overcome a tragedy, along with a budding romance . . . how could this bleeding heart not love this book? Believe me, I tried. I really did.
The approach Katherine Center takes in telling Margaret’s story of perseverance is what I feel differentiates this book from so many others, but it also makes it sort of contradictory in tone. Margaret is a twenty-something on the brink of having everything she ever wanted and through no fault of her own, loses it all in one fell swoop. It’s quite devastating actually. Yet, the author opts for a fluff-fest, laden with self-help lines and a saccharine tone to brighten the mood. It was a bit much, even for this optimist.
I’m guessing here, but I think the overly-positive approach to the topic driving this plot will divide readers. There will be those who undoubtedly appreciate the lightness the author brings to such heavy subject matter and there will be others—like myself—who struggle to connect emotionally and yearn for something deeper, more meaningful and authentic.
Piecing together what happens after the major plot point is revealed is pretty simple, so I’m not going to dissect things here, but I will say Margaret’s new reality lacked some credibility. Not only were there inconsistencies surrounding her condition that seemed to take shape depending on the situation she found herself in, but the absence of any questioning on her part—especially in the beginning—felt off. It’s not a far stretch to think anyone in her situation would demand answers, immediately.
What I found to be even more inauthentic was the dialogue, behavior and non-stop drama brought on by the secondary characters. They were not an easy bunch for me to like or even understand. The author relied heavily on their exaggerated antics to carry the story forward, which only served to highlight how weak the heart of the plot truly was. Compounded by the predictability, the author’s ease in glossing over pivotal points, the number of coincidences and that ending . . . do I even have to say it? How to Walk Away has not landed among my favorites.
*Thank you to St. Martin’s Press for providing me with a review copy.
August 20, 2019
4.5 stars for this one.
When you can accurately predict nearly the entire plot of a book, yet you still can't tear yourself away from it—that's when you know you've found a good one.
Margaret Jacobsen has always been an overachiever. She worked tirelessly to get good grades and succeed in school. She has been dating her handsome, steadfast boyfriend, Chip, for several years now, and she just landed her dream job, even though she wasn't quite qualified. Everything is leading her up to the moment she's been waiting for—she knows Chip is going to propose and they'll begin their journey to happily ever after.
Yet how often does everything turn out just as you've planned it? In a split second, perhaps the most magical moment in her life to date turns into her biggest nightmare, and she's powerless to stop it. The next thing she knows, she wakes up in the hospital, having to face obstacles like she'd never imagined.
"We were the very definition of helpless, and as I realized that, it also hit me that everything I'd been looking forward to was over before it even began. Chip and me—and the lakeside wedding we'd never have, and the rescue beagle we'd never adopt, and the valedictorian babies we'd never make. They say your life flashes before your eyes, but it wasn't my life as I'd lived it that I saw. It was the life I'd been waiting for. The one I'd never get a chance to live."
Suddenly, the woman for whom everything has worked out perfectly has her whole life turned upside down. Yet at the very moment when all she wants to do is wallow, she has to deal with those around her as well. Chip is drowning in self-pity and wants Margaret to forgive him and give him the easy way out, without an ounce of sacrifice on his part. Her mother has taken on this challenge as she's taken on every other obstacle in life—full steam ahead—and will stop at nothing to make her daughter fight to get every ounce of her life back and believe that is possible. Margaret's sister Kit returns after a three-year absence, and tries to help her with her quirky sense of humor and her unflagging sense of enthusiasm.
And then there's Ian, Margaret's physical therapist. The one the hospital staff thinks is too mean for Margaret's wounded psyche. The only PT who doesn't encourage or laugh with his patients, but instead just pushes them harder. The one who seems as if he feels nothing for anyone, except rage for his boss and the situation he's found himself in.
Margaret wants some semblance of her life back, but doesn't know what that entails, and she doesn't know how to handle those who purportedly know better than she does. How can she look forward to a life that will never be the same, never be what she had dreamed of? Will she even be able to have the things that "normal" people want—love, a family, a job, a future?
"I kept things calm, I stayed pleasant, I took my medicine—but the truth is, I had woken up in a dystopic world, one so different that even all the colors were in a minor key, more like a sour, washed-out old photograph than anything real. It looked that way, and it felt that way, too."
From the very first pages, How to Walk Away drew me in. As soon as I figured out what was happening, I knew where the plot would go, and while at first I was a little frustrated, this book won me over almost immediately. These characters seem familiar yet they are so appealing, even when they're acting selfishly, headstrong, impetuous, or insensitive. It didn't matter that I knew what would happen from start to finish—I cared about these characters and needed to be part of their story.
This is a book about finding hope and courage where you think you have none, about how you need to be the person to motivate yourself and buoy yourself through tough times—you can't depend on those around you. It's also the story of how it's always great to have family and supporters and loved ones around, but you have to learn to do things for yourself, too.
I'm being a little evasive with the plot even though many reviews explain just what happened to Margaret. I thought it was better to let the story unfold for you, even though you might very well predict it, too. This is tremendously appealing and so winning, that even when you wonder just how likely it would be that certain things would happen, you tell yourself to stop overanalyzing and keep enjoying.
A book that tugs at your heartstrings and makes you talk to yourself: how can you ask for anything more? I can see a lot of people really loving this one.
NetGalley and St. Martin's Press provided me an advance copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review. Thanks for making this available!
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com, or check out my list of the best books I read in 2017 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2018/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2017.html.
When you can accurately predict nearly the entire plot of a book, yet you still can't tear yourself away from it—that's when you know you've found a good one.
Margaret Jacobsen has always been an overachiever. She worked tirelessly to get good grades and succeed in school. She has been dating her handsome, steadfast boyfriend, Chip, for several years now, and she just landed her dream job, even though she wasn't quite qualified. Everything is leading her up to the moment she's been waiting for—she knows Chip is going to propose and they'll begin their journey to happily ever after.
Yet how often does everything turn out just as you've planned it? In a split second, perhaps the most magical moment in her life to date turns into her biggest nightmare, and she's powerless to stop it. The next thing she knows, she wakes up in the hospital, having to face obstacles like she'd never imagined.
"We were the very definition of helpless, and as I realized that, it also hit me that everything I'd been looking forward to was over before it even began. Chip and me—and the lakeside wedding we'd never have, and the rescue beagle we'd never adopt, and the valedictorian babies we'd never make. They say your life flashes before your eyes, but it wasn't my life as I'd lived it that I saw. It was the life I'd been waiting for. The one I'd never get a chance to live."
Suddenly, the woman for whom everything has worked out perfectly has her whole life turned upside down. Yet at the very moment when all she wants to do is wallow, she has to deal with those around her as well. Chip is drowning in self-pity and wants Margaret to forgive him and give him the easy way out, without an ounce of sacrifice on his part. Her mother has taken on this challenge as she's taken on every other obstacle in life—full steam ahead—and will stop at nothing to make her daughter fight to get every ounce of her life back and believe that is possible. Margaret's sister Kit returns after a three-year absence, and tries to help her with her quirky sense of humor and her unflagging sense of enthusiasm.
And then there's Ian, Margaret's physical therapist. The one the hospital staff thinks is too mean for Margaret's wounded psyche. The only PT who doesn't encourage or laugh with his patients, but instead just pushes them harder. The one who seems as if he feels nothing for anyone, except rage for his boss and the situation he's found himself in.
Margaret wants some semblance of her life back, but doesn't know what that entails, and she doesn't know how to handle those who purportedly know better than she does. How can she look forward to a life that will never be the same, never be what she had dreamed of? Will she even be able to have the things that "normal" people want—love, a family, a job, a future?
"I kept things calm, I stayed pleasant, I took my medicine—but the truth is, I had woken up in a dystopic world, one so different that even all the colors were in a minor key, more like a sour, washed-out old photograph than anything real. It looked that way, and it felt that way, too."
From the very first pages, How to Walk Away drew me in. As soon as I figured out what was happening, I knew where the plot would go, and while at first I was a little frustrated, this book won me over almost immediately. These characters seem familiar yet they are so appealing, even when they're acting selfishly, headstrong, impetuous, or insensitive. It didn't matter that I knew what would happen from start to finish—I cared about these characters and needed to be part of their story.
This is a book about finding hope and courage where you think you have none, about how you need to be the person to motivate yourself and buoy yourself through tough times—you can't depend on those around you. It's also the story of how it's always great to have family and supporters and loved ones around, but you have to learn to do things for yourself, too.
I'm being a little evasive with the plot even though many reviews explain just what happened to Margaret. I thought it was better to let the story unfold for you, even though you might very well predict it, too. This is tremendously appealing and so winning, that even when you wonder just how likely it would be that certain things would happen, you tell yourself to stop overanalyzing and keep enjoying.
A book that tugs at your heartstrings and makes you talk to yourself: how can you ask for anything more? I can see a lot of people really loving this one.
NetGalley and St. Martin's Press provided me an advance copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review. Thanks for making this available!
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com, or check out my list of the best books I read in 2017 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2018/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2017.html.
March 30, 2018
3.5 Stars
"Sometimes the last thing you want is the one thing you need."
At the beginning of the book, Margret Jacobsen was right where she wanted to be in her life. She had earned her MBA, she was about to start a dream job, and was in a relationship with the "perfect man". What could be better? Then on day, Chip, the perfect man, decided to take her flying. He knew that she was scared to fly, he knew that she had reservations, but he talked her into it. Never mind that although he is taking private pilot lessons and is so very close to getting his license - he was not a licensed pilot. He took out a plane and up they flew.
What was supposed to be a romantic flight where they became engaged, turned into a nightmare. During landing they crashed, and Chip walked away without any injuries while Margret was not so lucky. In the hospital, she learned just how extensive her injuries are. She also learned some family secrets, faces heartbreak, copes with her medical situation and prognosis for her future. Her sister, Kit, who has been estranged form the family for several years, comes back into her life and provides a cushion for Margaret (Maggie) as she copes with her current situation, her parents, Chip, Chip's Mother and her own feelings about her physical injuries. As she struggles with her physical therapy and her attempts to get a smile out of Ian, her physical therapist, we watch as she learns she still has a future, can still enjoy her life, and move on from past hurts.
People show you who THEY are in how they treat you. During the course of her hospitalization and recovery, Margaret learns a lot about the people in her life through how they treat her and react to her injuries.
A lot of research went into Margaret's medical condition, burns, prognosis and physical therapy options. I did like how she is depicted as having various emotions during her hospital stay when learning of her injuries and her prognosis: shock, fear, hope, determination, worry, acceptance etc. I found that part to be realistic and made the book more enjoyable. She didn't just initially accept things and move on, she needed support which she mainly received form her physical therapist and her sister. Yes, her parents were supportive as well, but I really enjoyed her relationship with her sister and her physical therapist.
This was an enjoyable book about moving on, second chances, inner strength, family, acceptance and not giving up.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
See more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com
"Sometimes the last thing you want is the one thing you need."
At the beginning of the book, Margret Jacobsen was right where she wanted to be in her life. She had earned her MBA, she was about to start a dream job, and was in a relationship with the "perfect man". What could be better? Then on day, Chip, the perfect man, decided to take her flying. He knew that she was scared to fly, he knew that she had reservations, but he talked her into it. Never mind that although he is taking private pilot lessons and is so very close to getting his license - he was not a licensed pilot. He took out a plane and up they flew.
What was supposed to be a romantic flight where they became engaged, turned into a nightmare. During landing they crashed, and Chip walked away without any injuries while Margret was not so lucky. In the hospital, she learned just how extensive her injuries are. She also learned some family secrets, faces heartbreak, copes with her medical situation and prognosis for her future. Her sister, Kit, who has been estranged form the family for several years, comes back into her life and provides a cushion for Margaret (Maggie) as she copes with her current situation, her parents, Chip, Chip's Mother and her own feelings about her physical injuries. As she struggles with her physical therapy and her attempts to get a smile out of Ian, her physical therapist, we watch as she learns she still has a future, can still enjoy her life, and move on from past hurts.
People show you who THEY are in how they treat you. During the course of her hospitalization and recovery, Margaret learns a lot about the people in her life through how they treat her and react to her injuries.
A lot of research went into Margaret's medical condition, burns, prognosis and physical therapy options. I did like how she is depicted as having various emotions during her hospital stay when learning of her injuries and her prognosis: shock, fear, hope, determination, worry, acceptance etc. I found that part to be realistic and made the book more enjoyable. She didn't just initially accept things and move on, she needed support which she mainly received form her physical therapist and her sister. Yes, her parents were supportive as well, but I really enjoyed her relationship with her sister and her physical therapist.
This was an enjoyable book about moving on, second chances, inner strength, family, acceptance and not giving up.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
See more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com
July 2, 2022
How do you move forward when life as you know it ends? Everything you had planned for, hoped for, and dreamed about is over. For Margaret, her life changes in an instant with a devastating accident that leaves her severely injured.
The focus of this heartwarming novel is how Margaret copes with the hand she's been dealt. And she has a colorful cast of characters that help her do just that. Some you will loathe, some will frustrate you, and others you will fall in love with. All are interesting, but her sister Kitty stole my heart.
I’m paraphrasing, but the ultimate message in the book is you have to live the life you were given, look for reasons to be grateful, work to create them while finding inspiration in the struggle, and pull joy out of hardship. “Because that’s all we can do: carry the sorrow when we have to and absolutely savor the joy when we can. Life is always, always both.”
I think the author successfully blended a happy feel-good story with the realities of life not always turning out the way we expect and she does it with humor and a lot of heart.
Recommended to readers who enjoy humorous character-driven feel-good novels.
*I received a copy of the book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
*this title will be published May 15, 2018
The focus of this heartwarming novel is how Margaret copes with the hand she's been dealt. And she has a colorful cast of characters that help her do just that. Some you will loathe, some will frustrate you, and others you will fall in love with. All are interesting, but her sister Kitty stole my heart.
I’m paraphrasing, but the ultimate message in the book is you have to live the life you were given, look for reasons to be grateful, work to create them while finding inspiration in the struggle, and pull joy out of hardship. “Because that’s all we can do: carry the sorrow when we have to and absolutely savor the joy when we can. Life is always, always both.”
I think the author successfully blended a happy feel-good story with the realities of life not always turning out the way we expect and she does it with humor and a lot of heart.
Recommended to readers who enjoy humorous character-driven feel-good novels.
*I received a copy of the book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
*this title will be published May 15, 2018
May 23, 2018
I loved this book so much!!! All the feels! All the Stars! Lots of laugh out loud moments, lots of tears, wonderful characters (her sister Kit and her Instagram was the best!) and smart dialogue! This was probably the best chick lit book I have ever come across (unless Me Before You is chick lit)! It was even inspirational!
Margaret is in her late 20’s and has it all! She goes out to celebrate her new dream job, gets engaged to her longtime boyfriend Chip and then something suddenly happens right then and there, her life takes a turn, and all is changed forever!
I wanted to say that this was the audio version. If you are looking to try audio, this would make a fantastic first listen! Therese Plummer is an amazing narrator! She makes this novel so easy to follow and so much fun to listen to!
Thank you to all my Goodreads friends for putting this book on my radar!
Highly highly recommended!!!
Margaret is in her late 20’s and has it all! She goes out to celebrate her new dream job, gets engaged to her longtime boyfriend Chip and then something suddenly happens right then and there, her life takes a turn, and all is changed forever!
I wanted to say that this was the audio version. If you are looking to try audio, this would make a fantastic first listen! Therese Plummer is an amazing narrator! She makes this novel so easy to follow and so much fun to listen to!
Thank you to all my Goodreads friends for putting this book on my radar!
Highly highly recommended!!!
April 24, 2018
Margaret thinks this is it! Today is the day that she is going to become an engaged woman. And she did! But her whole life got rocked in ways that she could never have foreseen or imagined. Something happened that day that changed every fiber of Margaret's being. On that fateful day.. Margaret lost herself. This is the story of how Margaret found herself. A story of finding Courage, Hope, Resilience, and Strength. This is the story of new beginnings. This is a story of second chances.
I felt renewed by this story. I felt a resurgence of energy and hope within me. I don't typically read stories like this and I thought it was particularly refreshing. Everyone needs a palate cleanser once in a while, at least in my opinion. I think the protagonist was brave and personified the type of courage I would hope to possess if faced with a similar situation. This was definitely an easy read that was more character-driven than plot-based. After giving it much thought.. my final rating is a 3.5 rounded up.
I felt renewed by this story. I felt a resurgence of energy and hope within me. I don't typically read stories like this and I thought it was particularly refreshing. Everyone needs a palate cleanser once in a while, at least in my opinion. I think the protagonist was brave and personified the type of courage I would hope to possess if faced with a similar situation. This was definitely an easy read that was more character-driven than plot-based. After giving it much thought.. my final rating is a 3.5 rounded up.
April 24, 2018
2.5 If you look at the average rating and glowing reviews of this book, you will soon realize I am definitely in the minority with my opinion. Excepting for one friend in the sisters group, everyone else loved it. Fluffy reads, feel good reads, they definitely have a place for many, after a heavy read, or sad read, we all need something to lighten our day. I can't say I didn't enjoy parts of this, I did. Some of the characters were great and I am always drawn to a good looking Scotsman. The author has z natural, easy flowing talent with words.
I felt, however, that the jovial tone didn't match some of the tragic happenings in the plot. Even in my lighter reads I need a certain amount of credibility, realism, need things to make sense and I had serious questions about some of the happenings here. For me this went beyond feel good, to over the top, it was just too, too everything.....The ending so beautifully packaged, tied in a big bow. Seriously, whose life follows this pattern?
So, yes I may be in the minority, but it's just how I felt. Don't let my review put you off reading this,unless your name is Irene, lol, I am probably just not the right reader for this type of book.
ARC from Netgalley.
I felt, however, that the jovial tone didn't match some of the tragic happenings in the plot. Even in my lighter reads I need a certain amount of credibility, realism, need things to make sense and I had serious questions about some of the happenings here. For me this went beyond feel good, to over the top, it was just too, too everything.....The ending so beautifully packaged, tied in a big bow. Seriously, whose life follows this pattern?
So, yes I may be in the minority, but it's just how I felt. Don't let my review put you off reading this,unless your name is Irene, lol, I am probably just not the right reader for this type of book.
ARC from Netgalley.
January 14, 2019
4.25 Incredible Stars!!* (rounded down)
There are novelists and then there are novelists… those that just know how to tug at our heartstrings. How to envelop us in characters’ lives, and make our tear ducts burst wide open. Katherine Center is that kind of author.
Margaret’s life is incredibly full. She has everything to live for. The promise of her dream job and Chip, her boyfriend who is on the cusp of proposing. Then wouldn’t you know it, it all comes crashing down, literally.
Chip is mere minutes away from getting his pilot’s license and he wants to impress Margaret by taking her out on a night flight. The thing is, Margaret has an unnatural fear of flying and always has. Knowing that this is the night he is going to propose she goes anyway. Then it starts to rain, he isn’t prepared and boom...crash landing. Chip walks away without a scratch. And Margaret? Well, she wakes up in the hospital, with severe injuries. Life isn’t always fair.
To make matters worse her sister Kit, who she hasn’t seen in 3 years shows up while she’s in the hospital and wants a re-do. As if!! Yet Kit is able to bring something out in Margaret that she thought was lost forever. To say that I just LOVED the characters of Kit and Margaret - well, that is an understatement!! These two made my heart absolutely sing.
Then there is Ian, “Maggie’s” physical therapist. He’s such a harda$$ - he’s mean, grumpy and difficult and yet he knows how to get results. He’s not nice to anyone, especially Maggie and yet, there is something about him that Maggie can’t help but be drawn to. After a while, he kinda sounded like a dreamboat but that’s just me (lol!).
“How to Walk Away” is the second novel I’ve read by Katherine Center - I just love how she writes - every word feels like real life, there are tough times, where the tears well up and fall and then there are moments immediately thereafter when laughter ensues. Her characters are quirky and realistic. Maggie and Kit felt like my best friends. Somehow, I pretty sure a lot of other readers felt the same way..
This is a novel about learning to roll with the punches, good and bad, as well as about taking stock in loved ones. It’s also about life lessons. Thank you for the reminder Katherine Center! I love love love your books!
This was my Christmas buddy read with Kaceey! It was a fabulous choice. We love our Katherine Center books and have another planned soon.
A huge thank you to Jordan Hanley at St. Martin’s Press and to Katherine Center for a copy of this book to read and review.
Published on Goodreads, Amazon and Twitter on 1.12.19.
Excerpt to be published on Instagram.
There are novelists and then there are novelists… those that just know how to tug at our heartstrings. How to envelop us in characters’ lives, and make our tear ducts burst wide open. Katherine Center is that kind of author.
Margaret’s life is incredibly full. She has everything to live for. The promise of her dream job and Chip, her boyfriend who is on the cusp of proposing. Then wouldn’t you know it, it all comes crashing down, literally.
Chip is mere minutes away from getting his pilot’s license and he wants to impress Margaret by taking her out on a night flight. The thing is, Margaret has an unnatural fear of flying and always has. Knowing that this is the night he is going to propose she goes anyway. Then it starts to rain, he isn’t prepared and boom...crash landing. Chip walks away without a scratch. And Margaret? Well, she wakes up in the hospital, with severe injuries. Life isn’t always fair.
To make matters worse her sister Kit, who she hasn’t seen in 3 years shows up while she’s in the hospital and wants a re-do. As if!! Yet Kit is able to bring something out in Margaret that she thought was lost forever. To say that I just LOVED the characters of Kit and Margaret - well, that is an understatement!! These two made my heart absolutely sing.
Then there is Ian, “Maggie’s” physical therapist. He’s such a harda$$ - he’s mean, grumpy and difficult and yet he knows how to get results. He’s not nice to anyone, especially Maggie and yet, there is something about him that Maggie can’t help but be drawn to. After a while, he kinda sounded like a dreamboat but that’s just me (lol!).
“How to Walk Away” is the second novel I’ve read by Katherine Center - I just love how she writes - every word feels like real life, there are tough times, where the tears well up and fall and then there are moments immediately thereafter when laughter ensues. Her characters are quirky and realistic. Maggie and Kit felt like my best friends. Somehow, I pretty sure a lot of other readers felt the same way..
This is a novel about learning to roll with the punches, good and bad, as well as about taking stock in loved ones. It’s also about life lessons. Thank you for the reminder Katherine Center! I love love love your books!
This was my Christmas buddy read with Kaceey! It was a fabulous choice. We love our Katherine Center books and have another planned soon.
A huge thank you to Jordan Hanley at St. Martin’s Press and to Katherine Center for a copy of this book to read and review.
Published on Goodreads, Amazon and Twitter on 1.12.19.
Excerpt to be published on Instagram.
May 27, 2018
THIS! BOOK! I completely fell in love and was glued to every page, every word. Yes, it was unputdownable!
The roller coaster ride it takes you on is fascinating and totally captivating!
It’s a story of courage. A story of determination and grit! A story of acceptance.
It is also a romance, but don’t expect an alpha take charge, sexy, hot between the sheets kind of read. No, this is a heartfelt, hard fought for, humorous kind of love story that warmed my heart and pulled on it’s strings!
The main characters are one of a kind, down to earth, and so lovable!
And yes, of course, I went in totally blind, as those five star ratings piqued my interest ;)
This is my first read by this author and can tell you she is one gifted author.
May 16, 2018
5 Big Brilliant Beautiful Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
BEST BOOK of 2018 so far.... WOW! This book had all the feels.... I was absolutely captivated from first page to last... my emotions went on an amazing rollercoaster.... sorrow, anger, hope, elation, frustration, happiness, sadness, love, Hate, and so much more....
Margaret was a remarkable and inspiring character... she had a bright future and then tragedy struck and it was all taken away from her.... this book was about Margaret’s struggle and journey to the other side of tragedy... along the way she found out who the true people in her life were....
Margaret didn’t always do things how I would have liked, but who am I to judge? I’ve never fortunately been in this situation.... there were also some people in her life that frustrated me quite a bit, and some of the things said were mind blowing.... there were also some people in Margaret’s life that exceeded both her and my expectations.... I realize I’ve been pretty vague.... but I want you to go on this journey without too much information and enjoy it as much as I did.... something beautiful that was touched on in this book is the deeper the sorrow you have felt, the greater the joy you will feel....#Truth
Strongly encourage you to read this beautiful book filled with hope and resilience and love.💕
*** thank you so much to the publisher and Net Galley for a copy of this brilliant book ***
BEST BOOK of 2018 so far.... WOW! This book had all the feels.... I was absolutely captivated from first page to last... my emotions went on an amazing rollercoaster.... sorrow, anger, hope, elation, frustration, happiness, sadness, love, Hate, and so much more....
Margaret was a remarkable and inspiring character... she had a bright future and then tragedy struck and it was all taken away from her.... this book was about Margaret’s struggle and journey to the other side of tragedy... along the way she found out who the true people in her life were....
Margaret didn’t always do things how I would have liked, but who am I to judge? I’ve never fortunately been in this situation.... there were also some people in her life that frustrated me quite a bit, and some of the things said were mind blowing.... there were also some people in Margaret’s life that exceeded both her and my expectations.... I realize I’ve been pretty vague.... but I want you to go on this journey without too much information and enjoy it as much as I did.... something beautiful that was touched on in this book is the deeper the sorrow you have felt, the greater the joy you will feel....#Truth
Strongly encourage you to read this beautiful book filled with hope and resilience and love.💕
*** thank you so much to the publisher and Net Galley for a copy of this brilliant book ***
May 12, 2018
5 utterly uplifting stars to How to Walk Away! 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
I was gobsmacked by Katherine Center’s previous book, Happiness for Beginners. She almost writes in her own genre. Not too light, not too heavy, elicits just the right amount of emotion, loving characters, and completely uplifting at the end. I found out there is a genre that is exactly this- UpLit. How to Walk Away is another rendition of UpLit.
Margaret is in the prime of her life, when it all may have been taken from her in an instant as the result of a tragic accident. Waking up in the hospital, she has choices to make. Just how will she move forward after the devastation she has experienced? Will her life ever go back to normal?
I admired Margaret’s journey towards healing. She allowed others to help her. All of the expected and authentic emotions were present when one recovers from a serious accident, and Margaret had the perfect mix of vulnerability and strength.
How to Walk Away is a charming, witty, heartbreaking, and affecting story of love and family, and it cheered me up when I needed it most. One of the messages in the book: savor the joy!
Thank you to Katherine Center, St. Martin’s Press, and Netgalley for the ARC. How to Walk Away will be released on May 15, 2018!
My reviews can also be found on my shiny new blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com
I was gobsmacked by Katherine Center’s previous book, Happiness for Beginners. She almost writes in her own genre. Not too light, not too heavy, elicits just the right amount of emotion, loving characters, and completely uplifting at the end. I found out there is a genre that is exactly this- UpLit. How to Walk Away is another rendition of UpLit.
Margaret is in the prime of her life, when it all may have been taken from her in an instant as the result of a tragic accident. Waking up in the hospital, she has choices to make. Just how will she move forward after the devastation she has experienced? Will her life ever go back to normal?
I admired Margaret’s journey towards healing. She allowed others to help her. All of the expected and authentic emotions were present when one recovers from a serious accident, and Margaret had the perfect mix of vulnerability and strength.
How to Walk Away is a charming, witty, heartbreaking, and affecting story of love and family, and it cheered me up when I needed it most. One of the messages in the book: savor the joy!
Thank you to Katherine Center, St. Martin’s Press, and Netgalley for the ARC. How to Walk Away will be released on May 15, 2018!
My reviews can also be found on my shiny new blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com
May 2, 2020
cute story. i really like the concept of it, but i would have loved it so much more if i hadnt read it already. the idea is quite similar to a significant portion of ‘maybe in another life.’
but most of my enjoyment came from the originality of the characters anyway - particularly the bond and interactions between margaret and her sister. i found them both to be funny and loved how they brought out the best in each other. ian is also a really great addition and i love how margaret brought out the best in him. its just a really nice balance between all the characters, which make for a heartwarming story.
and i do want to nit-pick a little and point out how unrealistic i found the ending climax to be. its just doesnt fit in with the overall tone or direction of the story. i dont quite see the point of it and feel that the results in the epilogue could have been reached with an alternative/more appropriate way. it just took me out of what was a really relatable story and made me question everything.
regardless, the story is cute and the characters are great. its a good chick-lit if youre looking for a quick pick-me up.
↠ 3.5 stars
but most of my enjoyment came from the originality of the characters anyway - particularly the bond and interactions between margaret and her sister. i found them both to be funny and loved how they brought out the best in each other. ian is also a really great addition and i love how margaret brought out the best in him. its just a really nice balance between all the characters, which make for a heartwarming story.
and i do want to nit-pick a little and point out how unrealistic i found the ending climax to be. its just doesnt fit in with the overall tone or direction of the story. i dont quite see the point of it and feel that the results in the epilogue could have been reached with an alternative/more appropriate way. it just took me out of what was a really relatable story and made me question everything.
regardless, the story is cute and the characters are great. its a good chick-lit if youre looking for a quick pick-me up.
↠ 3.5 stars
April 4, 2020
4.5 Stars
This book is a great example about what I love about the Book of the Month club (and no, this not a plug for them, I'm just saying). Left to my own devices, I probably never would have picked this up. Even if I saw friends raving about it on goodreads. I am just not usually drawn to what I (erroneously) assume are sad, chick-lit books; however, when I got those five monthly book selections and their blurbs and spiels, etc., for whatever month this was, I felt drawn to this story.
Now, usually, I am not gonna lie...this probably would have sat unread on my shelf for a long time, as books I think sound good (but aren't romance or fantasy) tend to do. Last year, however, saw a huge shift in my reading tastes and I have been reading a lot more "mainstream" fiction.
That, the fact that I have more downtime on my hands at work because of Covid-19 and, because - let's face it - I also want to bring in books without naked alien men on the covers (I can't take electronics to work with me and it's just easier to avoid, "So...what's that book about?" questions), prompted me to pack this with my lunch yesterday. And I ended up finishing it the same day I started it.
This story was very engaging from the start. I really liked Margaret as the narrator of her own story and loved how she would sometimes basically say, "Yes, I know that was ridiculous, but that's how I felt at the time."
I enjoyed her roller-coaster of emotions and/or lack thereof through what anyone would deem a really rough life experience. And I loved her real, believable yet quirky family dynamic. I also loved Ian - of course.
The only reason I gave this 4.5 instead of 5 stars (not that it really matters since I rounded up) is that I thought the ending was a little weak in some areas and didn't live up to the promise of the book. And no, I am not suggesting I wanted . I actually liked that she didn't as it felt true to the story. I just didn't like how abruptly it seemed to end and some of the elements of the epilogue I felt were...unnecessary.
But anyway, I thought this was really excellent and I will definitely check out more from this author.
This book is a great example about what I love about the Book of the Month club (and no, this not a plug for them, I'm just saying). Left to my own devices, I probably never would have picked this up. Even if I saw friends raving about it on goodreads. I am just not usually drawn to what I (erroneously) assume are sad, chick-lit books; however, when I got those five monthly book selections and their blurbs and spiels, etc., for whatever month this was, I felt drawn to this story.
Now, usually, I am not gonna lie...this probably would have sat unread on my shelf for a long time, as books I think sound good (but aren't romance or fantasy) tend to do. Last year, however, saw a huge shift in my reading tastes and I have been reading a lot more "mainstream" fiction.
That, the fact that I have more downtime on my hands at work because of Covid-19 and, because - let's face it - I also want to bring in books without naked alien men on the covers (I can't take electronics to work with me and it's just easier to avoid, "So...what's that book about?" questions), prompted me to pack this with my lunch yesterday. And I ended up finishing it the same day I started it.
This story was very engaging from the start. I really liked Margaret as the narrator of her own story and loved how she would sometimes basically say, "Yes, I know that was ridiculous, but that's how I felt at the time."
I enjoyed her roller-coaster of emotions and/or lack thereof through what anyone would deem a really rough life experience. And I loved her real, believable yet quirky family dynamic. I also loved Ian - of course.
The only reason I gave this 4.5 instead of 5 stars (not that it really matters since I rounded up) is that I thought the ending was a little weak in some areas and didn't live up to the promise of the book. And no, I am not suggesting I wanted . I actually liked that she didn't as it felt true to the story. I just didn't like how abruptly it seemed to end and some of the elements of the epilogue I felt were...unnecessary.
But anyway, I thought this was really excellent and I will definitely check out more from this author.
January 12, 2019
100% unputdownable!
My heart was racing after the very first chapter....
Margaret knows tonight is her big night. This is the evening her boyfriend Chip is going to propose! She can feel it in her bones. Her best guess? Probably planning to pop the question at the restaurant tonight over a candle-lit dinner.
Well...she got her proposal all right, only it wasn’t nearly how she imagined!
Chip is just one final flight away from getting his pilot's license. That doesn’t stop him from hoping to take Margaret up on a romantic, winged cruise. Only issue... Margaret has been terrified of flying since childhood. Saying no to that invitation would be out of the question! What if this is the big one, the proposal?
But what if her worst nightmares were to actually become reality. A plane crash, a devastating injury, a life damaged forever. Is she strong enough to overcome the horrible reality of it all?
Courage Margaret, courage!
Katherine Center writes with a thoroughly descriptive voice that will put you deep inside Margaret's soul. Experience her every pain, her worst fears.
“There are all kinds of ways to recover.”
Katherine Center has a delightful way of bringing her characters to life. Giving them a voice that’s loud and clear. All suddenly becoming very real, very human.
I loved Margaret’s inner-dialogue as she struggles to piece her life back together. And just what might that new life look like? Will she really be able to leave the past behind? Perhaps most important of all, is there a chance love really could conquer all?
As with all Katherine Center novels, be prepared for the entire spectrum of emotions, from laughter to tears. (Who could ask for more?)
An incredible buddy read with Susanne that has us reaching for more from this author!
Thank you to Jordan Hanley at St. Martin’s Press and Katherine Center for a copy of this book to read and review.
My heart was racing after the very first chapter....
Margaret knows tonight is her big night. This is the evening her boyfriend Chip is going to propose! She can feel it in her bones. Her best guess? Probably planning to pop the question at the restaurant tonight over a candle-lit dinner.
Well...she got her proposal all right, only it wasn’t nearly how she imagined!
Chip is just one final flight away from getting his pilot's license. That doesn’t stop him from hoping to take Margaret up on a romantic, winged cruise. Only issue... Margaret has been terrified of flying since childhood. Saying no to that invitation would be out of the question! What if this is the big one, the proposal?
But what if her worst nightmares were to actually become reality. A plane crash, a devastating injury, a life damaged forever. Is she strong enough to overcome the horrible reality of it all?
Courage Margaret, courage!
Katherine Center writes with a thoroughly descriptive voice that will put you deep inside Margaret's soul. Experience her every pain, her worst fears.
“There are all kinds of ways to recover.”
Katherine Center has a delightful way of bringing her characters to life. Giving them a voice that’s loud and clear. All suddenly becoming very real, very human.
I loved Margaret’s inner-dialogue as she struggles to piece her life back together. And just what might that new life look like? Will she really be able to leave the past behind? Perhaps most important of all, is there a chance love really could conquer all?
As with all Katherine Center novels, be prepared for the entire spectrum of emotions, from laughter to tears. (Who could ask for more?)
An incredible buddy read with Susanne that has us reaching for more from this author!
Thank you to Jordan Hanley at St. Martin’s Press and Katherine Center for a copy of this book to read and review.
September 4, 2022
4 stars
How to Walk Away is the third book I've read of Katherine Center's and I have to say, I'm in love with her writing. This one isn't my favorite of hers, but I still loved so much about it. It was light on the romance, but kept me hooked all the way through.
How to Walk Away starts out with a plane crash. It follows Margaret through the worst day of her life, and the journey of her healing and recovering. Margaret's story was difficult at times, but her growth was inspiring and I loved watching her grow stronger. By the end, I wasn't just rooting for her to get her hea, I was cheering for her. I loved her ever changing relationship with her family, and of course, Ian.
I listened to the audio book and the narration was great. Therese Plummer did an amazing job voicing Margaret and doing Ian's accent. Also, if you've read 'Things You Save in a Fire', there is a little tie in, which I enjoyed finding out about.
This story was heartbreaking at times, but also uplifting and heartfelt. The writing is fantastic and I can't wait to devour anything and everything else Center writes.
‘When you don’t know what to do for yourself, do something for someone else.’
How to Walk Away is the third book I've read of Katherine Center's and I have to say, I'm in love with her writing. This one isn't my favorite of hers, but I still loved so much about it. It was light on the romance, but kept me hooked all the way through.
How to Walk Away starts out with a plane crash. It follows Margaret through the worst day of her life, and the journey of her healing and recovering. Margaret's story was difficult at times, but her growth was inspiring and I loved watching her grow stronger. By the end, I wasn't just rooting for her to get her hea, I was cheering for her. I loved her ever changing relationship with her family, and of course, Ian.
I listened to the audio book and the narration was great. Therese Plummer did an amazing job voicing Margaret and doing Ian's accent. Also, if you've read 'Things You Save in a Fire', there is a little tie in, which I enjoyed finding out about.
This story was heartbreaking at times, but also uplifting and heartfelt. The writing is fantastic and I can't wait to devour anything and everything else Center writes.
'There are all kinds of happy endings.'
September 17, 2018
I don’t read a lot of what is typically classified as women’s fiction because sometimes the plots can be too formulaic and predictable. But there are authors in that genre who don’t fit into what I realize are probably my unwarranted and stereotypical beliefs about women’s fiction (and based on what I’ve read recently it’s time to change those beliefs!) I’ve read great women’s fiction by Jojo Moyes, Jodi Picoult, Abbi Waxman, and Liane Moriarty. And now I’m adding Katherine Center to that list. “How to Walk Away” was a wonderful story, filled with humor, wisdom, inspiration, great characters, and the reminder that, as one of characters says, “There are all kinds of happy endings.”
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for providing an advance copy of this book .in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for providing an advance copy of this book .in exchange for my honest review.
April 23, 2018
I absolutely loved this novel, it was lighthearted and engaging.
Margaret's life is almost perfect. She has a wonderful boyfriend, recently finished her studies and has just (unofficially) landed her dream job. Her life falls apart when she suffers an accident that causes her to end up in the hospital with a life-changing injury and facing difficulties she never imagined.
I was captivated from the beginning. The characters are likable, interesting, and made me smile throughout. This is a novel about overcoming obstacles, family relationships, and hope.
Overall, I loved this book and recommend it to readers of contemporary fiction.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via Netgalley
Margaret's life is almost perfect. She has a wonderful boyfriend, recently finished her studies and has just (unofficially) landed her dream job. Her life falls apart when she suffers an accident that causes her to end up in the hospital with a life-changing injury and facing difficulties she never imagined.
I was captivated from the beginning. The characters are likable, interesting, and made me smile throughout. This is a novel about overcoming obstacles, family relationships, and hope.
Overall, I loved this book and recommend it to readers of contemporary fiction.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via Netgalley
Shelved as 'did-not-finish'
August 14, 2020DNFing 20 mins into the audiobook bc I can already tell I'm gonna hate this even more than the last Katherine Center book I read. "YoU'rE tHiNkInG LiKe A gIrL" fuuuuuuck off
February 1, 2018
It's the trying that heals you......
Perfect days lack perfection when life leaves its oppressing thumbprint. We can spin out of control in a nano second and all that we have come to know is left in shambles in the whirlwind.
Margaret Jacobsen knows only too well of the ridges and swirls of that thumbprint. With a freshly earned MBA and a handsome fiance in tow, Margaret reaches new heights. But those starlit heights have taken her on a flight with tragic consequences.
Chip wanted the perfect setting high above the clouds when he presented Margaret with his grandmother's ring. That was not in the flight plan and neither were the serious injuries that Margaret would sustain while Chip walked away from the crash unscathed.
A question for the doctor.......
Katherine Center creates a storyline surrounded, at first, with the robust energy of youth and an open highway of opportunity. Her main character, Margaret, will wake in a hospital bed with a very dreary prognosis. Nurses and therapists refrain from giving Margaret any insight into her condition. They pipe up time and time again: "Now that's a question for the doctor."
Although we eye Margaret as our main concern, Katherine Center lines her story with interesting characters including an unpredictable sister, Kitty, that she hasn't seen in three years, and a mother who refuses to address this. Her father sits mostly on the sidelines, but his character will come to the fore when a "family situation" comes to the surface. Center weaves other noted characters throughout who may have a great impact on Margaret as she goes through the healing process.
I was impressed with the research that Katherine Center must have done in order to address Margaret's injuries. Be aware that it's not all encased in a clinical environment. Center taps mightily into the emotional side as well giving us a fully rounded main character. There is an ease to the flow of her writing style and the humorous dialogue is edgy with the flavor of our own familiar conversations and comebacks. There's a lot of "human" going on in this one, folks. And that, I believe, is at the essence of the draw.
I received a copy of How to Walk Away through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to St. Martin's Press and to Katherine Center for the opportunity.
Perfect days lack perfection when life leaves its oppressing thumbprint. We can spin out of control in a nano second and all that we have come to know is left in shambles in the whirlwind.
Margaret Jacobsen knows only too well of the ridges and swirls of that thumbprint. With a freshly earned MBA and a handsome fiance in tow, Margaret reaches new heights. But those starlit heights have taken her on a flight with tragic consequences.
Chip wanted the perfect setting high above the clouds when he presented Margaret with his grandmother's ring. That was not in the flight plan and neither were the serious injuries that Margaret would sustain while Chip walked away from the crash unscathed.
A question for the doctor.......
Katherine Center creates a storyline surrounded, at first, with the robust energy of youth and an open highway of opportunity. Her main character, Margaret, will wake in a hospital bed with a very dreary prognosis. Nurses and therapists refrain from giving Margaret any insight into her condition. They pipe up time and time again: "Now that's a question for the doctor."
Although we eye Margaret as our main concern, Katherine Center lines her story with interesting characters including an unpredictable sister, Kitty, that she hasn't seen in three years, and a mother who refuses to address this. Her father sits mostly on the sidelines, but his character will come to the fore when a "family situation" comes to the surface. Center weaves other noted characters throughout who may have a great impact on Margaret as she goes through the healing process.
I was impressed with the research that Katherine Center must have done in order to address Margaret's injuries. Be aware that it's not all encased in a clinical environment. Center taps mightily into the emotional side as well giving us a fully rounded main character. There is an ease to the flow of her writing style and the humorous dialogue is edgy with the flavor of our own familiar conversations and comebacks. There's a lot of "human" going on in this one, folks. And that, I believe, is at the essence of the draw.
I received a copy of How to Walk Away through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to St. Martin's Press and to Katherine Center for the opportunity.
May 11, 2018
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
Wow and here I thought the last book I read was emotional! How to Walk Away by Katherine Center made me cry even harder than The Ones We Choose did. However, in this book there is more romance and much more of an "inspirational story" vibe.
Margaret Jacobsen is 27 years old when she gets on a Cessna prop plane with her boyfriend who is working on getting his pilot's license. She is terrified of flying, but she gets on anyway because she wants to face her fears (plus she thinks her boyfriend Chip is about to propose). This is a choice that will change her life forever.. What follows is the story of how Margaret copes with a life changing injury, and how everyone else reacts as well.
This book made me cry like a BABY, and I loved what a strong personality Margaret is. If there is a real Margaret Jacobsen out there I want her to be my best friend because she was such a relatable character, and she was freaking hilarious. How to Walk Away is told entirely from Margaret's point of view, and I wouldn't have wanted it any other way. It felt like your best friend was telling you her life story and it just felt so real to me.
This book is all about overcoming a life-changing tragedy. It was such a perfect combination of adversity, romance, and joy that it made it a very emotional but hopeful read. I was also able to read this book in a day which is saying something too!
Final Thought: I loved this book and when I got towards the end I wished there wasn't an ending. It is so beautifully written, and I really can't wait to read more from this author knowing how much I loved this novel. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for an inspirational story with a bit of romance and sadness. There is a lot of pain in How to Walk Away, but a lot of hope and happiness as well.
How to Walk Away in 3-ish words: Entertaining, Emotional, Conversational
Wow and here I thought the last book I read was emotional! How to Walk Away by Katherine Center made me cry even harder than The Ones We Choose did. However, in this book there is more romance and much more of an "inspirational story" vibe.
Margaret Jacobsen is 27 years old when she gets on a Cessna prop plane with her boyfriend who is working on getting his pilot's license. She is terrified of flying, but she gets on anyway because she wants to face her fears (plus she thinks her boyfriend Chip is about to propose). This is a choice that will change her life forever.. What follows is the story of how Margaret copes with a life changing injury, and how everyone else reacts as well.
This book made me cry like a BABY, and I loved what a strong personality Margaret is. If there is a real Margaret Jacobsen out there I want her to be my best friend because she was such a relatable character, and she was freaking hilarious. How to Walk Away is told entirely from Margaret's point of view, and I wouldn't have wanted it any other way. It felt like your best friend was telling you her life story and it just felt so real to me.
This book is all about overcoming a life-changing tragedy. It was such a perfect combination of adversity, romance, and joy that it made it a very emotional but hopeful read. I was also able to read this book in a day which is saying something too!
Final Thought: I loved this book and when I got towards the end I wished there wasn't an ending. It is so beautifully written, and I really can't wait to read more from this author knowing how much I loved this novel. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for an inspirational story with a bit of romance and sadness. There is a lot of pain in How to Walk Away, but a lot of hope and happiness as well.
How to Walk Away in 3-ish words: Entertaining, Emotional, Conversational
February 15, 2020
I don’t think I’ve given a 5* rating this year yet (2020) so here it is!
I was so invested in this story. I’m glad I became a part of Books and Jams reading group. This was the monthly pick by book tuber Krista. I loved it.
It brought out every emotion you could ever think of feeling.
It’s good that this didn’t have quite the ending you would be rooting for. Not in a nasty way, but realistic human life events way. Not everything is tied up in ribbons and bows......yet......the ending was just as fulfilling as any great climax of events.
All of these characters lived inside my head for as long as I read it, and, I’m sure beyond time. A book with a punch, a book with meaning and certainly a book full of hope.
Just once in a while you get a book that gives you all of the tingles.
I’m certainly going to send for her other book lots rave about.
Loved it!
Some think for such a tragic thing that’s happened the author has made certain aspects too jovial.
My dad lost his leg, it was amputated after a tragic accident. Over 30 years ago now! And it WAS tragic and life changing for us all. The medics said he needed support and positivity. Each of us had a role to play. He reached suicidal point as this character does in the story. She gave herself a year.
Within a year things change, people change, circumstances change and the disabled person minds change along with those whose also had to adapt around them. What I’m saying is, doom and gloom helped no one. The IMMEDIATE effect is doom, it’s gloom, it’s the pits. But sooner or later you learn life goes on, but in a different way. Like traffic being diverted, the person and family and friends go down the diverted path of life.
I thought the author showed a good positive side to this.
So I hope no one minds....
I thought I’d share our experience with you
I was so invested in this story. I’m glad I became a part of Books and Jams reading group. This was the monthly pick by book tuber Krista. I loved it.
It brought out every emotion you could ever think of feeling.
It’s good that this didn’t have quite the ending you would be rooting for. Not in a nasty way, but realistic human life events way. Not everything is tied up in ribbons and bows......yet......the ending was just as fulfilling as any great climax of events.
All of these characters lived inside my head for as long as I read it, and, I’m sure beyond time. A book with a punch, a book with meaning and certainly a book full of hope.
Just once in a while you get a book that gives you all of the tingles.
I’m certainly going to send for her other book lots rave about.
Loved it!
Some think for such a tragic thing that’s happened the author has made certain aspects too jovial.
My dad lost his leg, it was amputated after a tragic accident. Over 30 years ago now! And it WAS tragic and life changing for us all. The medics said he needed support and positivity. Each of us had a role to play. He reached suicidal point as this character does in the story. She gave herself a year.
Within a year things change, people change, circumstances change and the disabled person minds change along with those whose also had to adapt around them. What I’m saying is, doom and gloom helped no one. The IMMEDIATE effect is doom, it’s gloom, it’s the pits. But sooner or later you learn life goes on, but in a different way. Like traffic being diverted, the person and family and friends go down the diverted path of life.
I thought the author showed a good positive side to this.
So I hope no one minds....
I thought I’d share our experience with you
February 23, 2019
4 stars!
Loved the writing, the characters and the humour!
This novel follows Maggie Jacobsen as she endures a shocking and devastating personal tragedy. Maggie has always strived for perfection in life – in school, her career, her relationships, her personal goals. Her mother’s high expectations have always been in the back of her mind, pushing her to reach higher and be the best. After landing her dream job and feeling the excitement of the possibility of a lifelong commitment with her boyfriend, Maggie faces the unthinkable. Her entire life is turned upside down in a split second and she has to reevaluate her goals, motivations and her ultimate happiness.
I had an immediate connection to the writing! I loved the witty, sarcastic humour that had me giggling on every page. Though the story itself was emotional and heart-breaking, the exquisite writing softened the dark nature of the situation and really brought the characters to life. The characters were wonderful – I loved them all!
Though the story was somewhat predictable, I really enjoyed the journey of experiencing it unfold. My one critique is that I felt one scene near the end was unnecessary and a bit “much” which is why I took away one star. Overall, I loved this book and really look forward to reading more from Katherine Center!
Thank you to my lovely local library for lending me a copy of this fantastic novel!
Loved the writing, the characters and the humour!
This novel follows Maggie Jacobsen as she endures a shocking and devastating personal tragedy. Maggie has always strived for perfection in life – in school, her career, her relationships, her personal goals. Her mother’s high expectations have always been in the back of her mind, pushing her to reach higher and be the best. After landing her dream job and feeling the excitement of the possibility of a lifelong commitment with her boyfriend, Maggie faces the unthinkable. Her entire life is turned upside down in a split second and she has to reevaluate her goals, motivations and her ultimate happiness.
I had an immediate connection to the writing! I loved the witty, sarcastic humour that had me giggling on every page. Though the story itself was emotional and heart-breaking, the exquisite writing softened the dark nature of the situation and really brought the characters to life. The characters were wonderful – I loved them all!
Though the story was somewhat predictable, I really enjoyed the journey of experiencing it unfold. My one critique is that I felt one scene near the end was unnecessary and a bit “much” which is why I took away one star. Overall, I loved this book and really look forward to reading more from Katherine Center!
Thank you to my lovely local library for lending me a copy of this fantastic novel!
May 31, 2018
Tries to be another Me Before You and, clearly, many people think it succeeds. Unfortunately, though, I thought this book lacked the charm created by Lou and Will.
And also-- call me a killjoy, but I struggled to get on board with a relationship between a (sexy, Scottish) physical therapist and his paralyzed patient. Margaret is recovering from a traumatic accident, and it struck me as highly inappropriate that Ian took advantage of the skewed power dynamics.
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And also-- call me a killjoy, but I struggled to get on board with a relationship between a (sexy, Scottish) physical therapist and his paralyzed patient. Margaret is recovering from a traumatic accident, and it struck me as highly inappropriate that Ian took advantage of the skewed power dynamics.
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May 3, 2018
4.5 Stars!
HOW TO WALK AWAY by KATHERINE CENTER was an extremely uplifting, kind, and heartwarming novel that captured my heart and drew me in almost immediately. There is so much goodness within the pages of this book! This is a story filled with romance, forgiveness, hope, courage, love, and resilience.
KATHERINE CENTER delivers a well-written and engaging read here with interesting, honest and believable characters. I absolutely loved the voice of our main character, Margaret “Maggie” she was so strong-willed and at times comical. The witty banter that ensued between the characters was extremely enjoyable and made me smile quite a few times. Maggie’s sister, Kitty was also such a great character and I absolutely loved her resourcefulness and the love and support she showed to Maggie through her recovery.
This book was definitely an inspirational, entertaining, enjoyable, and unforgettable story that was a most welcome and refreshing read for me. The ending was bittersweet and very satisfying. This was my first novel that I have read by Katherine Center and it won’t be my last. Would recommend!
Publication Date: May 15, 2018
Thank you so much to NetGalley, St. Martin's Press, and Katherine Center for the opportunity of reading an advanced copy of this book in exchange for a review!
Review written and posted on our themed book blog:
Two Sisters Lost In A Coulee Reading
https://twosisterslostinacoulee.com
HOW TO WALK AWAY by KATHERINE CENTER was an extremely uplifting, kind, and heartwarming novel that captured my heart and drew me in almost immediately. There is so much goodness within the pages of this book! This is a story filled with romance, forgiveness, hope, courage, love, and resilience.
KATHERINE CENTER delivers a well-written and engaging read here with interesting, honest and believable characters. I absolutely loved the voice of our main character, Margaret “Maggie” she was so strong-willed and at times comical. The witty banter that ensued between the characters was extremely enjoyable and made me smile quite a few times. Maggie’s sister, Kitty was also such a great character and I absolutely loved her resourcefulness and the love and support she showed to Maggie through her recovery.
This book was definitely an inspirational, entertaining, enjoyable, and unforgettable story that was a most welcome and refreshing read for me. The ending was bittersweet and very satisfying. This was my first novel that I have read by Katherine Center and it won’t be my last. Would recommend!
Publication Date: May 15, 2018
Thank you so much to NetGalley, St. Martin's Press, and Katherine Center for the opportunity of reading an advanced copy of this book in exchange for a review!
Review written and posted on our themed book blog:
Two Sisters Lost In A Coulee Reading
https://twosisterslostinacoulee.com
May 29, 2018
Library Overdrive Audiobook narrated by Therese Plummer.
“The earth dropped away from us ‘again’”...
“Hold on”.
Hold on to ‘what’, I was thinking.
“They were the very definition of helpless”, Margaret says.
Those were the last words before the plane crash.
At the start —the audio- narrator was fine. I was engaged & curious to see where this story was going.
Soon after the crash - my interest decrease. I felt the dialogue was lacking authenticity big time!!!!
Both the writing and the reader were WAY TOO PERKY CHIPPER after a very tragic accident.
I couldn’t take this book serious.
The only person who didn’t feel like a caricature character was the mother.
2 to 2.5 stars...barley rating up.
“The earth dropped away from us ‘again’”...
“Hold on”.
Hold on to ‘what’, I was thinking.
“They were the very definition of helpless”, Margaret says.
Those were the last words before the plane crash.
At the start —the audio- narrator was fine. I was engaged & curious to see where this story was going.
Soon after the crash - my interest decrease. I felt the dialogue was lacking authenticity big time!!!!
Both the writing and the reader were WAY TOO PERKY CHIPPER after a very tragic accident.
I couldn’t take this book serious.
The only person who didn’t feel like a caricature character was the mother.
2 to 2.5 stars...barley rating up.
Read
February 18, 2021enjoyed this but want to find a disabled person's review of this before fully forming my opinion
June 14, 2020
3.5 Stars
When I finished reading this about a month ago I wasn’t sure how to review it because really it was a great book and objectively maybe even a 5 star read for some.
The writing was great, in a very matter of fact way, and I thought the author did a splendid job at characterising through dialog.
The social dynamics of a family were very well presented. I easily oscillated between empathising and criticising the people in Margaret’s life. By the end of the book, you have a pretty clear understanding of the fact that everybody was just doing what they thought was right and helpful, either for themselves or for the ones they loved.
I can even stand by Chip’s actions. I consider him to be morally reprehensible in the way he handled it all, but I think that ultimately he would have done more hurt if he stuck around.
The only thing that was perhaps unnecessary, although it added hope to the book, was the romance between Margaret and Ian. And the reason I say that, is because this book is clearly sold and written as a story of survival, thriving when your life as you know it has been taken from you. Throughout the book we are witnesses to a journey of physical and emotional pain and trauma. We are there for every stage. The before, the after and most importantly the in between.
I truly believe that Ian should have been a character who helps Maggie as her PT and also by sharing his personal losses in order to give her perspective but that’s where his involvement should have ended. He should have been a chapter, a crutch, a life lesson, not the love of her life and there’s two reasons for that. One, their connection did not feel believable, I just couldn’t see them being in love. The author didn’t allocate enough time to their story and it lacked development. And two, if you want to write a serious, heartbreaking, true to life but empowering story, don’t add a romantic angle just to “complete” the picture and wrap it up in a pretty, healthy bow where everything falls into place by the end.
If this book had been a love story about a woman who becomes paralysed and finds love afterwards, then by all means I’d love to read about it. But this was not the case here. This was about family, about loss, about tragedy, about pain, about societal expectations and about finding strength within when life throws you off course.
All in all this was a good book and I loved how the dialog flowed. I adored the main character. Her personality, outlook and inner thoughts even when bleak, were really what kept me turning page after page.
At times I did think it was a bit too preachy, too positive, if that even makes sense. I like a little more show less tell. There was a lot of show still, but there were so many passages where it felt like I was reading from a self-help book. I think in times of trauma, depression and anxiety people tend to be a little less textbook/rational and more emotional, and while we were told Maggie had some of those emotions, they were glossed over in order to make way for the positive, “look how hard she’s trying” ones.
When I finished reading this about a month ago I wasn’t sure how to review it because really it was a great book and objectively maybe even a 5 star read for some.
The writing was great, in a very matter of fact way, and I thought the author did a splendid job at characterising through dialog.
The social dynamics of a family were very well presented. I easily oscillated between empathising and criticising the people in Margaret’s life. By the end of the book, you have a pretty clear understanding of the fact that everybody was just doing what they thought was right and helpful, either for themselves or for the ones they loved.
I can even stand by Chip’s actions. I consider him to be morally reprehensible in the way he handled it all, but I think that ultimately he would have done more hurt if he stuck around.
The only thing that was perhaps unnecessary, although it added hope to the book, was the romance between Margaret and Ian. And the reason I say that, is because this book is clearly sold and written as a story of survival, thriving when your life as you know it has been taken from you. Throughout the book we are witnesses to a journey of physical and emotional pain and trauma. We are there for every stage. The before, the after and most importantly the in between.
I truly believe that Ian should have been a character who helps Maggie as her PT and also by sharing his personal losses in order to give her perspective but that’s where his involvement should have ended. He should have been a chapter, a crutch, a life lesson, not the love of her life and there’s two reasons for that. One, their connection did not feel believable, I just couldn’t see them being in love. The author didn’t allocate enough time to their story and it lacked development. And two, if you want to write a serious, heartbreaking, true to life but empowering story, don’t add a romantic angle just to “complete” the picture and wrap it up in a pretty, healthy bow where everything falls into place by the end.
If this book had been a love story about a woman who becomes paralysed and finds love afterwards, then by all means I’d love to read about it. But this was not the case here. This was about family, about loss, about tragedy, about pain, about societal expectations and about finding strength within when life throws you off course.
All in all this was a good book and I loved how the dialog flowed. I adored the main character. Her personality, outlook and inner thoughts even when bleak, were really what kept me turning page after page.
At times I did think it was a bit too preachy, too positive, if that even makes sense. I like a little more show less tell. There was a lot of show still, but there were so many passages where it felt like I was reading from a self-help book. I think in times of trauma, depression and anxiety people tend to be a little less textbook/rational and more emotional, and while we were told Maggie had some of those emotions, they were glossed over in order to make way for the positive, “look how hard she’s trying” ones.
February 21, 2022
How To Walk Away by Katherine Center was so unforgettable! This book just destroyed my heart, I can't even explain. It was just so heart wrenching! One minute I was cheering on the characters, the next minute I was sobbing. All I can say is, wow just wow! I can't believe I waited so long to read this story, but i'm so happy I picked it up! Katherine Center just tugged on my heart strings in so many ways. This is by far my favorite book I have read in 2022. This novel is it's a cancel-all-plans kind of book! This story is about survival, resilience, strength, and forgiveness. I often found myself wanting to just reach into the story and give Margaret a big hug and tell her she is so strong>3! Chip pissed me off so much, I just wanted to slap the crap out of him!
"When you don't know what to do for yourself, do something for someone else".
One Valentine's Day is about to change Margaret Jacobsen's life forever. Margaret is just about to step into the bright future she's worked so hard and so long for; a new dream job, a fiancé she adores, and the promise of a picture perfect life just around the corner. Then suddenly on what should have been the happiest days of her life, everything Margaret worked for is taken away in a blink of an eye. Margaret is terrified of flying, Chip is a training to be pilot who doesn't have his pilot license yet. Chip knows Margret is so scared to get on an airplane, but he still forces her to go. Chip decides to take Margaret out in the plane, but claims a windstorm has caused this unthinkable accident.
In the blink of an eye the plane crashes and Margaret is badly injured, she can't move, Chip walks away from this accident without a band aid. In the hospital and forced to face the possibility that nothing will ever be the same again, Margaret must confront the unthinkable. First, there is her fiance Chip, who wallows in self-pity while expecting to be forgiven, who doesn't even visit Margaret while she's in the hospital. Then there's her sister, Kitty, who finally shows up after just disappearing for three long years. I loved the exchange between Margaret and Kitty. Kitty shows up looking nothing like Margaret last expected her to, with a nose piercing, crazy hair, and many tattoos.
Finally, there's Ian, Magaret's physical therapist, the one nurses said was too tough for her. Ian is Scottish and has an accent that Margaret is instantly drawn to. Ian won't let Margaret give into her pity and who sees her like no one has seen her before. Sometimes the last thing you want is the one thing you need. I just don't understand how Chip can walk away from this accident with not a care in the world. My heart broke for Margret and everything she was put through. Margaret might have been a bit snooty, but Ian was determined to help her get better. This story had some laugh-out-loud moments, but then the next thing there was tear shedding all on the same page. My heart still hurts😢💔!
"When you don't know what to do for yourself, do something for someone else".
One Valentine's Day is about to change Margaret Jacobsen's life forever. Margaret is just about to step into the bright future she's worked so hard and so long for; a new dream job, a fiancé she adores, and the promise of a picture perfect life just around the corner. Then suddenly on what should have been the happiest days of her life, everything Margaret worked for is taken away in a blink of an eye. Margaret is terrified of flying, Chip is a training to be pilot who doesn't have his pilot license yet. Chip knows Margret is so scared to get on an airplane, but he still forces her to go. Chip decides to take Margaret out in the plane, but claims a windstorm has caused this unthinkable accident.
In the blink of an eye the plane crashes and Margaret is badly injured, she can't move, Chip walks away from this accident without a band aid. In the hospital and forced to face the possibility that nothing will ever be the same again, Margaret must confront the unthinkable. First, there is her fiance Chip, who wallows in self-pity while expecting to be forgiven, who doesn't even visit Margaret while she's in the hospital. Then there's her sister, Kitty, who finally shows up after just disappearing for three long years. I loved the exchange between Margaret and Kitty. Kitty shows up looking nothing like Margaret last expected her to, with a nose piercing, crazy hair, and many tattoos.
Finally, there's Ian, Magaret's physical therapist, the one nurses said was too tough for her. Ian is Scottish and has an accent that Margaret is instantly drawn to. Ian won't let Margaret give into her pity and who sees her like no one has seen her before. Sometimes the last thing you want is the one thing you need. I just don't understand how Chip can walk away from this accident with not a care in the world. My heart broke for Margret and everything she was put through. Margaret might have been a bit snooty, but Ian was determined to help her get better. This story had some laugh-out-loud moments, but then the next thing there was tear shedding all on the same page. My heart still hurts😢💔!
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