A Gandy Girl

Once again NR Walker brings forth compassion and understanding in her most recent novel.  Yanni’s Story deals with physical, sexual and mental abuse and the process towards recovery. This story is not an easy one but it is done so quite beautifully and patiently.  And while the relationship between Yanni and Peter slowly develops, it is certainly justified and well explained. Recovery is not an overnight process.  It is not something that you can just snap out of.  Trust and feeling safe is of utmost importance. There are triggers and some of which may not even be identifiable until it’s upon you.  Walker handled these aspects amazingly well and so thoughtfully.

Peter is an absolutely beautiful character who is the ultimate protector and loving force that Yanni so desperately needs. I do wish we had gotten more on this man.  I felt his background and desires to play the Daddy role in a relationship lacking.  I also wish we could have gotten a scene with both Yanni and Peter in therapy together. 

Overall, I found that their relationship developed quite well, and the scenes with Patrice quite thought provoking.  Walker's Whoopi Goldberg description for Patrice was a perfect casting.

An absolute highlight in this book is the secondary cast of characters. Not only do we get glimpses of Spencer and Andrew, but we get a heavy dose of Andrew’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Landon. I have to say I loved them the most and specifically Allen.  And yes, once again I have cast the amazing Craig T. Nelson as this man in my head.  I tend to gravitate to him for these types of amazing fathers.  He along with the amazing Diane Keaton perfectly fit this special couple for me.  Maybe I have seen “Family Stone” one time too many, who knows.

Overall, Walker brings such passion to her characters, and Yanni’s growth and recovery process was heartbreakingly real.  I do wish certainly portions of the book had progressed a little quicker however deep down I understood the need to show the reality of recovery.  While this is not my favorite of Walker’s books it is definitely unforgettable.  I look forward to hopefully more in this series. I can definitely see other characters who desperately need their stories told as well. 

*An ARC was provided by the Author in exchange for an honest review.*