Let me start this off by saying I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters were fleshed out really well, and the storyline was interesting and fast-paced enough to keep my interest. I read this book within less than two days!

However
The entire plot of the book was basically how Violet developed an eating disorder, which was the main storyline of the book as I read it. It would have been nice for the book summary to have mentioned this. As there was no mention of it at all.
Firstly because as someone who has struggled with eating disorders(as many do) I would like to have been aware of this storyline before reading, as I am not sure if I would’ve chosen to read it. Eating disorders are sensitive and easily triggered by even reading about it -especially in as much detail as this book got into.
Secondly because since the summary didn’t mention this storyline, for the first 60% of the book I was frustrated with the fact that it was mostly focused on losing weight and sending the wrong message across, and confused why the plot of the book was completely focused on something different than I had read before in the summary. It wasn’t until I figured out myself that this was the actual plot of the book that I felt more understanding towards it and read the book from a completely different point of view.

However: If I would judge this as a book with what I’ve mentioned above as its plot, I think it is a very touching, raw and honest book. Where I cared about Violet and rooted for her to get better, and was fully there on the journey with her. I even shed a few tears at the end.

Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Samantha Tonge for this ARC.

This book wasn't what I expected. I somewhat expected a light hearted fun read but this was so much more. It is tough to write this review because I don't want to give anything away. It did take me awhile to get into this book and I almost gave up ,but I'm glad I didn't. I had mixed feelings about Violet, I would go from liking her to not being a fan of her personality. I will say by the end of the book everything made sense even though I had my suspicions of why she was acting the way she was and how her mind was working. My heart broke for her, when it all clicked. She had such a wonderful support system but she was pushing those who truly care about her away. She was becoming toxic to herself and others around her. I would defiantly say that this was a great read when I find myself caring for the well being of a fictional character!

I didn't care for the flashbacks to 2001 until I realized that it made a big impact to the story and it explained why Violet was the way she was.. I now wish I had paid a little more attention to those chapters and will probably go back and read them now.

I will give a hint that this book does touch on mental health and eating disorders. Just be aware if those a triggers for a person.

I was not expecting this to be such a serious read and from the blurb it did not come across that way. In some ways I was pleasantly surprised by the depth and difficult plot threads and in other ways I felt I needed more warning. That being said I enjoyed the book and Tonge's exploration of serious subject matters is handled sensitively and it is integral to the plot. Despite not knowing what I was letting myself in for, I did guess the 'twist' early on and I was interested to see how Tonge would continue the plot and reveal the twist to the reader. The plot had a bit of everything and was definitely fast paced.
Violet as our main character is terrific, a very human, likeable yet flawed character I simply enjoyed spending time with her and following her development as the book progressed.
'If You Could See Me Now' is a difficult read at times but I found it to be worth it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advance copy.

Not what I thought – but that’s not a bad thing.

When Violet’s relationship with her boyfriend ends, she wonders whether there’s just something unlikeable, even unlovable about herself. This brings childhood memories to the surface and the narrative switches between the present and Violet’s seven year-old self.

From the description (the cover doesn’t give much away, really), I thought this was, if not a rom-com, then a romance with a personal development arc for the main character. Which is why, I think, about a third of the way through the book I wasn’t really feeling it, until a short while after that I realised that’s not what this book is. So don’t expect things to be straightforward, with hearts and butterflies and a neatly wrapped-up happy ending. It’s character-driven first, and the romance takes a back seat. Once I adjusted the way I was thinking about this novel, I really enjoyed it.

Violet embarks on a process of transformation to show herself and those around her that she really is good enough. And it seems to work. I’m not a fan of the ‘glow-up making everything better’ plotline and felt uneasy at this point. If you feel the same way, keep the faith – it doesn’t go the way you might fear.

I found the writing from a child’s perspective okay – it was really useful in helping the reader to understand how Violet has become the person she is today, and the past and present converge at the end of the book in a satisfying way. Writing a child’s voice, however, is tricky – you either have to choose a fairly limited vocabulary or have the character sound inauthentic for their age. Tonge strikes a pretty good balance.

I enjoyed the dialogue and description – there were some striking phrases without the language being overwrought. Because Violet as a character is feeling adrift, there’s naturally not much connection between her and her friends and family. Whilst being the right choice for the narrative, I felt it prevented me from connecting with Violet as much too. That said, the passages with Violet’s childhood bully were very vivid and effectively portrayed Violet’s suffocating yet isolated experience at school.

This is a powerful read that has a promising conclusion, if not a straightforwardly happy ending.

Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

I really really enjoyed this book. It was powerful, sympathetic and lovely when you have friends looking out for you. I did cry at the end but it’s really stayed with me. I didn’t want to put this book down!

Another great read by Samantha Tonge. I just couldn’t put it down it was so well written.
I really felt for Violet after her breakup from her boyfriend Lenny and I think everyone can relate to how life can change in a flash and how vulnerable people can feel.
The chapters that take us back to when Violet was young really added to the book and really resonated with me.
An excellent ending that had me shedding a few tears.
Thanks to NetGalley, Samantha Tonge and Boldwood Books for an advance copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Violet works at a book publisher and loves her job. She has been messed about by boyfriend Lenny and is gutted when she finds out the truth about him. Finding a new flatmate in Bella gives her a new start in more ways than she ever realised, something that resonated with me and I’m sure will with other readers.

Sometimes the worst things perhaps bring out the best in us if that makes sense? A fresh start, a new look, the little things that make us feel different and better even if only to ourselves. Samantha has a truly wonderful talent for putting things into a story that say so much more than the words on the page, that the reader can clearly see if they want to. Parts of the story go back to Violet's school days and her life with her mother and Uncle, who she was very close to, which gives a background as to why Violet is now, at the beginning of the book.
There are not many books where I finish and have to take a moment to gather myself. This one blew me away. I’ve also had friends similar to Bella and the twist completely threw me.

A story of change and hope and being who you are, not someone else’s perception. The confidence that can come from within if allowed and how the little things go towards doing this. Of friendships and truth and self belief. One of my books of the year 10* if I could.


For more reviews please follow me on X (formerly Twitter) @nickisbookblog got book
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I really enjoyed reading this book! It was real, with some deep themes, and it was still light and enjoyable. I did love the themes of love, trust, growing up, and taking control. I like the character development and I really like how the author writes, she does a good job with pulling at the heart strings.


Thank you to NetGalley, to the author, and to the publisher for this complimentary ARC in exchange for my honest review!!!

Wow what a thought provoking read. I really enjoyed this book and Violet's story was heartbreaking at times but one I think affects many people and as we read about her childhood it gave us a great insight into the way we think we ought to be and also how low self esteem can be the cause of such important and life changing problems. Samantha tells this story beautifully and it's a really important subject that needs more understanding I was in tears at the end a brave topic to write about. 5 big 🌟from me well done Sam

Taking control of your life, how far would you go for a perfect life.
As we meet kind hearted Violet Vaughan, her dream book job for Thoth Publishing, handsome boyfriend Lenny and her cat flossie she's happy in life.
Lenny and Beatrix become cosy and he leaves Violet she is guttered.
Taking in a new flat mate beautiful Bella who works in a spa changed Violets way of life, and now believing she's a ok person with a make over healthy eating and keeping fit.
As this book unfolds Taking us back to Violets childhood, this is such a powerful unique story, I love the characters blending into a story that will touch readers hearts sending over a powerful message.
It's touching, uplifting and a feel good read that I absolutely loved reading.

Wow! I finished this book at 1am. This morning, I woke up at 5.30am thinking about it & to be honest, I'm speechless (not helpful I know when writing a book review lol 😆)
My goodness, Samantha always writes books that stay with you long after the last page and this one is no exception, I think it will stay with me forever!
A powerful & insightful story that takes the reader on an emotional journey of their own; soul stirring, poignant, heartbreaking, compelling & full of love.
An absolute must read. In fact, put it at the top of your TBR for 28th Feb!

I love it when a book has substance :) Don't we all have insecurities, pain, and suffering? Then how come it is so hard to share it in society and feel like we need to suffer alone? I can't help myself, but ask this again and again with all the green grass and shiny happy people online with their shiny hair and happy workplaces - allegedly.

So this is a book about dealing with difficulties, being human, and what I especially enjoyed was the intergenerational friendship which was wonderful and warm.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of the book.

Just wow.....if there's something I've learnt about Samantha Tonge is there is always something more . It was heartwarming and real, with honest and believable characters and honestly just perfection in a book! Loved the insights into the world of publishing too...a fantastic touch for us mere readers! I just loved everything about it. Thank you

Now I've finished wiping my eyes....a very worthy 5 star read, very recommended

An excellent read for any and all readers! Author comes at you with both barrels and knocks you out of your shoes! Great job fleshing out all the characters. I give this book FIVE stars! Definitely recommend!

If You Could See Me Now is a well-written story that provides a deep and insightful look into the struggles many people face, offering a sense of understanding and comfort for those dealing with similar issues. The story explores themes of personal growth, trust, and the complexities of relationships, which makes it not only engaging but also thought-provoking.

As the book nears its end, it takes an unexpected turn that caught me off guard. While I can see how this twist might occur in real life, I feel that introducing it earlier in the narrative would have allowed for a smoother flow and given readers more time to process what ultimately happens to Violet,

This is a beautifully crafted story with credible, well-developed characters. The twists and turns lead to an astounding conclusion that will stay with you long after the book ends. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a compelling and emotional read!

This is a well thought out and definitely thought provoking read which I hope will encourage understanding and compassion. Violet suffered a loss during childhood which affected her badly and still impacts some parts of her now so when her relationship ended suddenly it caused her to look at herself in comparison to her ex’s new girlfriend and she found herself lacking in certain areas. Enter new flatmate Bella who does a great job of helping Violet make changes to her life which really make her feel good about herself but at what cost?

I know someone with a friend like Bella so I think this did make me read this differently as I had Bella figured out pretty early on. That said it is a great way of explaining how such a toxic relationship can start and how it impacts on so much of your life and how blinkered you can become to reality. It’s a fresh perspective and I hope may alter the mind set of some people who don’t understand such a challenging relationship and the factors that can lead to such dependence. That said it’s told in a fairly approachable way but one which covers a few pertinent factors people may not consider and it does so very well.

Absorbing, well written, and so on point with society's focus on women's body image and how it can affect so many aspects of life. Found family, true friendship, and discovering the truths that are hiding in plain sight. An amazing read, should be required reading!