Finding Innocence is the debut book written by Karen Keith. I first "met" Karen on Instagram which is how I discovered her book. Bookstagram is a great way to find new books by indie authors. I love having the opportunity to support fellow writers by reading their work.
I read Finding Innocence in two days. It follows Alexa Walker as she escapes her life at a group home and winds up in a place she's had dreams about, Green Mont, Californina. She believes this is her opportunity to start a new life but realizes not is all that it seems. Her life experiences in foster care and group homes allow her to navigate the trials of high school life and come out a winner.
The story really resonated with me, and I found I related to the characters and enjoyed them. Everyone knows a "Satan Sarah" haha. I absolutely loved the character Aron, and he had me smiling several times throughout the book. I also loved the dog Ugly and he was written so well. I thought this would be a typical yet enjoyable coming-of-age story where the girl learns about herself and has to choose between two guys in the end. Where that aspect is there, I was not prepared for the twist and cliffhanger at the end. Karen, I need book two ASAP! I need to know what happens next. Note: I knew something was coming; it just wasn't what I expected!
Synopsis: With nothing to lose and even less to gain, 17-year-old Alexa Walker finds herself on the run. Not to the fantasy of a brighter future, but fleeing from the nightmare just behind her. Strange recurring dreams lead Alex to Green Mont California, where she stumbles into the beautiful world of the privileged elite. And onto the radar of Ash Hartford and Caden Langston. The most alluring beings she's ever met. And far more dangerous than she knows. But the glittering world of pretty boys, parties, and fashion is shadowed in secrets even her new friends seem to hide. And the closer she gets to finding out the impossible truth? The faster the nightmare of her past closes in on her. Will her friends unite and stand with her? Or will they be the ones to betray her?
In conclusion, I highly recommend this book. The story was engaging and fun. The characters likable and relatable. The prose was well written. It was a fabulous debut, and I can't wait for book two.
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