Meet Alice Aniway
She didn’t grow up to be bold. She grew up to be quiet—and then had to unlearn it.
Who She Is
- Age: Early twenties
- Setting: Rural Kentucky, 1940s
- Background: Raised by her quiet, deeply kind father in the Glens. The youngest of four sisters. Grew up crafting beauty from found things—terrariums, pressed flowers, hand-stitched aprons.
What She Wants
To belong without disappearing. To honor her father’s memory and remain close to the land that raised her. To reclaim her voice—even if it trembles.
What She’s Up Against
A marriage built on control masked as righteousness. A community that gently silences. And a belief—deep down—that goodness means self-erasure.
Why Readers Love Her
Alice is for anyone who’s ever questioned what they were taught to believe. For anyone who’s felt small in a room that called itself holy. For anyone who had to leave a version of themselves behind in order to bloom.
“She smiled without trying. Her smile made people feel seen. It made them believe—for a second—that they mattered.”
For Book Clubs
Are you part of a book club that loves character-driven stories, rich emotional journeys, and layered themes? Alice Anyway was written with thoughtful readers in mind.
- 📝 Discussion questions available at launch
Alice Anyway – Book Club Discussion Guide
1. Finding Voice in Silence
How does Alice’s quiet nature both protect and limit her? Were there moments where you saw her beginning to reclaim her voice?
2. The Role of Faith and Community
How does religion shape the characters’ choices and identities in the novel? Where does faith uplift—and where does it control?
3. Grief and Memory
How do Alice’s memories of her father shape her path? In what ways does grief both tether her and set her free?
4. Marriage and Power
Discuss the dynamics between Alice and Darrell. What small signs of control did you notice early in their relationship? How does Alice’s perception of love change?
- 📬 Invite Brenda for a virtual Q&A (based on availability)
- 📖 Join the mailing list to be the first to access club materials