To Catch a Butterfly

by T M Payne 

Stevie Buchanan has a difficult upbringing, at least where her mother is concerned. She has a lovely relationship with her dad, but her mum is very cold and sometimes cruel to Stevie. This made it a difficult read at times as I just wanted to jump in there and give Stevie a hug. There seemed to be absolutely no reason for the mother’s behaviour towards Stevie other than perhaps her being jealous of the relationship she has with her dad.

Things go from bad to worse when there’s a work accident which leaves Stevie devastated and her mother bereft. Refusing help or comfort from anyone other than alcohol she shuts herself and Stevie away from everyone and poor Stevie must bear the brunt.

As Stevie becomes a young adult, she discovers a family secret, and her mother can no longer control her in the same way, so off she goes in search of the person who turned her life and the lives of her family upside down….

I absolutely did not expect the twists this story took, or the truths Stevie discovers. It certainly explains, although does not condone, her mother’s behaviour.

My heart went out to Stevie and all she has had to endure. I understood her decision at the end, as well as her doubts. She’s a brilliant character. This is a brilliant, character driven, story.

It’s a shame it’s no longer available to purchase because I very much recommend it.

I have no idea how long it must have been on Kindle for, but I am glad I finally read it.

I have found the author though and added book one of a more recent series of theirs to my Wishlist.

Stevie Buchanan’s family has a secret. Catherine Stone has a secret. Stevie knows nothing. Catherine knows everything. Set between Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, this is the story of an innocent life thrown into the deep. When their worlds collide and the real truth is laid bare, no one could have imagined how very dark the secret really is. As Stevie grows from a curious little girl into a strong young woman, the secret is revealed. And so her journey begins. A journey that takes her to Catherine’s door.