The Sister Pact by Stacie Ramey: Review and GIVEAWAY

I received this book from netgalley.com and later in a physical format from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. 

The Sister Pact

By Stacie Ramey

November 3, 2015; Tradepaper, ISBN 9781492620976

Book Info:

Title: The Sister Pact

Author: Stacie Ramey

Release Date: November 3, 2015

Publishers: Sourcebooks Fire

Summary:

Who holds your secrets?

Allie is devastated when her older sister commits suicide- and it’s not just because she missed her. Allie feels betrayed. The two made a pact that they’d always be together, in life and in death, but Leah broke her promise and Allie needs to know why.

Her parents hover. Her friends try to support her. And Nick, sweet Nick, keeps calling and flirting. Their sympathy only intensifies her grief.

But the more she clings to Leah, the more secrets surface. Allie’s not sur which is more distressing: discovering the truth behind her sister’s death or facing her new reality without her.

Goodreads Link:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23510106-the-sister-pact?from_search=true&search_version=service

Buy Links:

Amazon: http://ow.ly/SqJ3B

Apple: http://ow.ly/SqJnB

Barnes&Noble: http://ow.ly/SqJ6T

BooksAMillion: http://ow.ly/SqJ8P

!ndigo:  http://ow.ly/SqJaB

IndieBound: http://ow.ly/SqJcC

About the Author:

Stacie Ramey learned to read at a very early age to escape the endless tormenting from her older siblings. She attended the University of Florida where she majored in communication sciences and Penn State where she received a Master of Science in Speech Pathology. When she’s not writing, she engages in Netflix wars with her children or beats her husband in Scrabble. She lives in Florida with her husband, three children, and two rescue dogs

Social Networking Links:

Website

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Excerpt from The Sister Pact:

Liquid inspiration from the Nyquil bottle makes me feel like I should paint something for Leah. Let her know I get it now. Maybe I didn’t always when she was alive. Maybe I didn’t listen when she tried to tell me things.

I open the door and look out into the hallway. Lights off, TV on downstairs. Mom’s check-out gives me the clear shot I need. In the garage I find the white paint from the trim in my room and the tools and brushes. Everything seems really clear right now. And brilliant. I feel sort of brilliant. Like every part of my brain is working.

Back in my room I shake the can of paint and open it with a screwdriver and hammer, trying hard not to spill it on my hardwood floors. Too late.

My curtains are in the way, so I rip them off the rod. I have to stand on my window bench to reach as high as I need. I start to paint, not knowing what I’m doing until the image forms on the wall, like magic. By the time I’ve painted the point of convergence on my window where the pink diamond goes, I recognize it. I painted it like it was burned into my brain. But I guess I knew all the time even as it materialized. I’ve made Leah’s ring.

I sit back and admire my work. I hope wherever she is, she sees this and knows I’m sorry. A shooting pain goes through my head and my eyes try to adjust to the blinding light the sun throws as it sets. Spiky rays of light come from the sunburst that flashes through my painting, making it seem like it’s alive.

I blink away the brightness and try to let my eyes settle. When I open them again I’m confused. Because I see Leah standing there. Really standing there. I steady my gaze and look again. I’m not imagining it. She’s there, surrounded by light, kind of outlined in it. Like one of my rendering sketches.

I want to reach for her, ask her if she’s really here, but when I blink again, her image disappears and I know it’s just my guilt and my need that’s bringing her to me. Even if she can’t stay.

I close up the paint cans and take them and the medicine bottle downstairs. The paint and tools go back into the garage and the brush gets washed in the sink and left to dry on a bottom shelf of the garage. I turn the water on in the sink and run my hand over its stainless steel surface, careful to wash all the remnants of my painting party down the drain. Finally I wrap the medicine bottle in newspaper and push it to the bottom of the trashcan, making certain that it’s completely covered. One thing Leah taught me was how to hide your party.

When I’m done, I walk back up to my bathroom, and brush my teeth, trying not to look in the mirror too long. As if my crazy would show somehow. I crawl into bed, setting my alarm for the morning. First day of school. I put my hands together in the prayer position and put them under my cheek.

I think about what I just did and try not to worry about what it means. It’s too much allows the headache to creep back in, crouching and ready to spring. I’ll close my eyes and go to sleep, and hope that tomorrow will be okay. I know it’s not what I should be doing. I know I’m copping out, but I can’t help it.

I’m living my life in tiny squares. Checker board moves. I go forward. I go backward. I jump. Each play means something. Each turn matters. The most important thing is to keep moving. To not get jumped. Sometimes a little Nyquil helps that. They don’t call it medicine for nothing.

MY Review:

A suicide pact, a grieving sister, a flirtatious boy, numbing you feelings with drugs and alcohol and coping with the changes that are occurring for in the teen years while dealing with grief. I thought the author did a great job of portraying the many emotions out main character Allie goes through and how as a teen she is coping with the death of her sister.

It also does an excellent job of illustration a raw and real account of decision making as a teen. Those years are some of the hardest in any persons life because emotions are so high and hormones are going and I think this gave a lot of insight into teens and grief. It also showed how friends can be there and try to help and also fail at that. It shows how not everyone is perfect and that we can't all expect to have it figured out all the time. I also thought the author did a great job of including Leah, the sister who committed suicide, into the story and presenting her in a way that didn't feel forced or dramatic. 

Overall I think the story should be recognized for how it unraveled the story and slowly spilled all the secrets and revealed all the things that teens can keep from the ones they love. I am just surprised that the author has some much insight into what it feels like to be a teenager. I think she did an amazing job and I really look forward to more stories from her in the future. I was impressed. 

My Star Rating:

4 out of 5 wonderful stars

Rafflecopter Giveaway Link (Runs 10/1-11/30 

US and Canada only):

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Review: Nowhere Girl by Ruth Dugdall

   

Title: Nowhere Girl
Author: Rith Dugdall
Publisher: Legend Press
Publication Date: October 31, 2015

I received this book in an e-arc format from netgalley.com and the publisher in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

Description:

Probation officer, Cate Austin, has moved for a fresh start, along with her daughter Amelia, to live with her police detective boyfriend, Olivier Massard. But when she realises just how casually he is taking the disappearance of Ellie, Cate decides to investigate matters for herself. She discovers Luxembourg has a dark heart. With its geographical position, could it be the centre of a child trafficking ring? As Cate comes closer to discovering Ellie’s whereabouts she uncovers a hidden world, placing herself in danger, not just from traffickers, but from a source much closer to home.

My Review:

Nowhere Girl is the story of Cate and her daughter moving in with Cate's boyfriend. After they begin to get settled Cate becomes a little unnerved about a case her boyfriend is working on and doesn't like how he is handling the situation.

Cate decides to step in and take matters into her own hands and begin investigating on her own which only leads to more discoveries about the town she thought would be a safe place for her daughter to grow up.

Sex rings, mysterious characters, and complex relationships really add to this stories overall feel and I think that really worked for it and would be a great fall/Halloween read for someone who didn't like monsters and gore but erred more on the side of psychological thriller.

I think this was a sharp look at the sex trade in our day and age and also the "twist" for the book was a bit predictable but still added a needed layer to the story. I would definitely recommend this read and would suggest this to people who like thrillers and crime fiction.


My Star Rating:

3.5 out of 5

Recommended if you enjoyed:

   

Middle Grade Reviews: Warren The 13th by Tania Del Rio

Thank you netgalley.com and the publisher for providing me with an EARC version of the story in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Title: Warren the 13th

Author: Tania Del Rio

Illustrator: Will Staehle

Publisher: Quirk Books

Publication Date: November 24, 2015

Description:

Meet Warren the 13th, a cursed 12-year-old Victorian bellhop who’s terribly unlucky . . . yet perpetually optimistic, hard-working, and curious. Orphan Warren’s pride and joy is his family’s hotel, but he’s been miserable ever since his evil Aunt Anaconda took over the management. Anaconda believes a mysterious treasure known as the All-Seeing Eye is hidden somewhere on the grounds, and she’ll do anything to find it. If Warren wants to preserve his family’s legacy, he’ll need to find the treasure first—if the hotel’s many strange and wacky guests don’t beat him to it! This middle-grade adventure features gorgeous two-color illustrations on every page and a lavish two-column Victorian design that will pull young readers into a spooky and delightful mystery.

My Review:

When I saw the cover for this book I was immediately intrigued. I loved the quirky look of the illustrated characters and once I read the descriptions I decided to request it and I am very happy I did. I actually wish this was out now because it would be a fun mystery read for around Halloween time for a middle grade reader although I do feel like adults would also find this highly entertaining. 

I didn't feel like I got the most out of the illustrations because of the formatting of the e-book but I will definitely be picking this up for my cousin as he is just about the right age to really enjoy this. 

The characters were whimsical and mysterious while also incredibly quirky and unique. The plot was driven by the hunt for a secret treasure and I know as a middle school age student I would have eaten a novel like this up. Seriously, this was so great! I loved it even as an adult and can just imagine a kid reading this over and over again.

I loved how Warren cared so much about the hotel and his family legacy and so optimistic. He was a great character to look up to and although he was always down on his luck he kept working to achieve his goals.

Of course a story like this wouldn't be complete without a terrible family member like his evil Aunt and she was perfectly written in the role. 

If you want something fun, action driven, mysterious, and one of a kind for the young reader in your house that has a great male character in the lead then I would definitely suggest this. I will say that I personally rated it a 4 because it got a little slow for my tastes at times but it was well developed and interesting. 

My Star Rating:

4 out of 5

Read this if you enjoyed:

    

Children's Book Review: Museyon Publishing

Originally I received the first title via netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review. After reading up on the publisher and this particular story I requested a physical  copy of both titles referenced below from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I am grateful they were able to send them my direction and they did not disappoint. 

TITLE: You Look Yummy!

Author: Tatsuya Myanishi

Publisher: Museyon

Publication Date: November 1st 2015

Description:

This sweet tale about the love between father and son is the first in a tremendously popular Tyrannosaurus series in 12 titles to date, with combined sales in excess of 3 million copies in Japan, China, Korea, Taiwan and France. A long, long time ago, a baby Ankylosaurus is born on a volcano erupting ground. As the little Ankylosaurus begins wandering around, a big Tyrannosaurus comes along. He is about to pounce when the baby cries out, "Daddy!" and grabs onto his leg. The baby thinks the Tyrannosaurus is his father, so as not to disappoint the little one, he takes on the task of raising a baby Ankylosaur. The two develop ever stronger bonds of love, but soon comes the day when they must part. Highlighting the importance of family, this sweet picture book celebrates the love between father and son.

My Review:

Going into this I actually had pretty high expectations because it has sold so well over seas and I was excited they were bringing a version to the US. I have a nephew who loves dinosaurs so I decided this might make a good gift for him and wanted to check it out first.

I was not at all disappointed. This is a great book about the power of a father son relationship and I think it would actually be a really great book to share with your son or especially your adopted son as the TRex adopts a little dino he originally thought might make a good snack.

The illustrations in the book are some of the most unique and vibrant I have come across in a long time in a children's book and can see that really attracting and keeping the attention of the intended audience. The story is adorable and well developed and overall I just couldn't suggest this to anyone more.

I think probably the best children's book I have read all year!

So good in fact I am going to leave the amazon link so you can pick this up ASAP!

http://smile.amazon.com/Look-Yummy-Tyrannosaurus-Tatsuya-Miyanishi/dp/1940842069/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1445519945&sr=8-1&keywords=you+look+yummy

My Star Rating:

5 out of 5

Because I was contacting the publisher in hopes of receiving a physical copy I decided to browse their published works and see what else they had to offer. I thought they must really have some great publications if this one was so well received so I came across the next book and requested it as well. Again, I was sent this for free in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. 

Title: Gon, The Little Fox

Author: Nankichi Niimi

Illustrator: Genjirou Mita

Publisher: Museyon

Publication Date: April 1, 2015

Description: 

In this retelling of Nankichi Niimi’s Japanese folktale masterpiece, delicate watercolors bring to life the mischievous yet kind-hearted spirit of Gon, the Little Fox. As the story begins, Gon is relishing his life as a roving and rascally fox. Each day brings a new opportunity for him to stir up trouble in a nearby village. On any day, he might be found digging up yams or setting fire to rapeseed husks. One day, however, Gon feels remorse for having killed an eel that was meant for a poor villager’s dying mother. This rare moment of conscience takes Gon down a path that ultimately leads to his fate. The story of Gon is bittersweet, so proceed with caution, as the little fox is sure to win over your heart.

My Review:

I wanted to make sure to include an additional illustration from the book which can be found on the publishers website: http://www.museyon.com/shop/gon-the-little-fox/

The reason I thought that was important is because the watercolor beautiful cover illustrations continue throughout the story. Absolutely stunning. I also felt like it fit the story and the feel of a traditional Japanese folktale.

Folktales are usually great illustrations of the culture of the area and this is definitely that. I felt so overwhelmed (in the best way possible) by the Japanese imagery and traditions. The mischievous fox starts out being nothing but trouble and ends up growing as a character. You see this fox and his moral development and it really is just amazing to read.

It is bittersweet just like the description states but also beautiful and definitely worth picking up. I would definitely suggest it for an older elementary audience because it is a little more complex than the typical children's picture book.

My Star Rating:

4 out of 5 stars

Overall rating of Publications:

If you are wondering about the quality of the books for the price they are published beautifully. Absolutely vivid images and the binding and covers are sturdy and the books well made and well thought out. I can't wait to see more books from this publisher in the future. 

Children's Book Reviews: Tanglewood Press

           

I received all the following from netgalley.com and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. After speaking with the publisher I also received Night of the White Deer and the other two books in physical format to better view these picture books. I appreciate their generosity but 

Title: Is a Worry Worrying You?

Author:Freida Wolff and Harriet May Savitz

Illustrator: Maria LeTourneau

Publisher: Tanglewood 

Publication Date: April 15, 2005

Description:

Suppose, just suppose, one hundred elephants come to tea and you discover you don't have any tea bags.
Uh, oh. What will you do with a herd of thirsty elephants?
Now that's a worry!
But you can get rid of that worry by offering the elephants lemonade instead.

Adults think of childhood as a carefree time, but the truth is that children worry, and worry a lot, especially in our highly pressurized era. This book addresses children's worries with humor and imagination, as hilarious scenarios teach kids the use of perspective and the art of creative problem-solving.

My Review:

I decided to talk about this first because it was my favorite of the selections I received from Tanglewood. It was so amazing to find a story that talks about the fact that children are just smaller versions of adults. They have feelings, stress, and they worry just like everyone. 

I think was a great story for saying that the worries are normal but it was full of creative, over the top scenarios to say that their worries could be worse and with the help of family and friends we can overcome these worries and live happily.

I think what really set this apart was the art style. It reminded me a lot of something Tim Burton would enjoy and that makes it something I really enjoyed. It was a little darker and used muted colors but I think that is what sets this children's story apart and makes it worth picking up. Great story and excellent art makes this a can miss read.

My Star Rating:

5 out of 5

Read this if your child enjoys:

       

Next we have:

Title: Yes, Let's

Author: Galen Goodwin Longstreth

Illustrator: Maris Wicks

Publisher: Tanglewood 

Publication Date: April 9, 2013

Description:

Let's get into the station wagon, roll those windows down,
Let's sing out loud and wave to cows as we drive out of town.
Let's park the car beneath the trees and trade our shoes for boots,
Let's set the timer, all say "Cheese!" then head into the woods.

In this cute book about a family's camping trip, the simple, rhyming text is enhanced by comical illustrations that bring wit and energy to every page. Packaged in a smaller size for little hands and easy to pack up, this book would be a perfect read-aloud during the car ride, along with a great way to recap a trip at the end. The illustrations inside the front cover serve as a reminder of things to pack, and the story inspires activities to plan. There is even a space in the back to paste a picture of the reader's own family trip. This little book serves as a loving tribute to family togetherness.

My Review:

This is one of the books the publisher sent me a physical copy of for review and I was not at all expecting such a beautifully published book! Seriously, very lovely.

The story is absolutely one of the most fun stories I have read in a children's book this year. Absolutely loved the comical sing-song lyrical passages and the art style is as bright and cheery as this lovely little family going out on an adventure. I think that this story is a great illustration of how fun it can be to go out and just enjoy being a family.

It doesn't necessarily need to be a road trip but even if it is just camping out on the living room floor those are memories your kids will have forever and be able to look back on and enjoy and I think this story illustrates how special spending time together can be.

My Star Rating:

4 out of 5

Read this if your children enjoy:

    

Another great selection:

Title: The Kissing Hand

Author: Audrey Penn

Illustrator: Ruth E. Harper and Nancy M. Leak

Publisher: Tanglewood

Publication Date: May 15, 2006

Description:

School is starting in the forest, but Chester Raccoon does not want to go. To help ease Chester's fears, Mrs. Raccoon shares a family secret called the Kissing Hand to give him the reassurance of her love any time his world feels a little scary. Since its first publication in 1993, this heartwarming book has become a children's classic that has touched the lives of millions of children and their parents, especially at times of separation, whether starting school, entering daycare, or going to camp. It is widely used by kindergarten teachers on the first day of school. Stickers at the back will help children and their parents keep their Kissing Hand alive.

My Review:

I could see why this became a well loved bestseller. This was a heart warming read about children starting school for the first time and dealing with being scared about wanting something to calm those jitters and fears. Chester's mom decides to share the family secret of "the kissing hand" where Chester can take the kiss and her love with him even when he is scared.

In the description it says that is often used in kindergarten to help easy the fear of the first day and I could see it being absolutely perfect for that. 

Tanglewood has published other books about Chester and I really want to pick some up especially if they were as good as this one.

I would recommend this for both parents and children to ease their fears about the separation that begins to occur as your children start to grow up. 

My Star Rating:

4 out of 5

Read this if you children enjoyed:

  

Next we have another great release:

Title: Night of the White Deer

Author: Jack Bushnell

Illustrator: Miguel Co

Publisher: Tanglewood

Publication Date: September 18, 2012

Description:

The boy had heard the old stories about a mysterious white deer that appeared among the fields of corn. Some said she had been formed from a star that fell to the earth; others said she had risen up from some tanks of spilt milk. But to the young boy, it seemed that’s all she was, the stuff of stories — until one night when she appears on his farm, standing in the field, her coat a sparkling white. During this magical nighttime encounter, the deer leads the boy into the skies on a flight through the lights of the aurora, among the countless other creatures living in its glistening colors. But the boy will discover more the next day, when he tells his family about his experience. This modern folk tale inspires young readers to see the magic that comes from the twinkles of the nighttime sky.

My Review:

I have some pretty mixed feelings about this particular book. First, the illustrations and the publication of this book are absolutely lovely. This is another title I received a physical copy of and I absolutely love the look and feel of it. 

I will say that the story if also very well written and there is a lot to enjoy about it. There is a magical deer that that fly through the woods and a young boy gets to experience the deer in all of it's wonder but as soon as he goes home and tell his family they laugh at him. All except his dad who tells the boy about his experience. 

I will say that I liked the folk tale elements of the story and I, as an adult reader easily understood and followed the plot. However, I think this might be a little difficult for children. It is suggested for 4-8 and if you plan to pick this up I would suggest it for the higher ages of that range.

My Star Rating:

3.5 out of 5

Read this if your children enjoyed:

All Books from Tanglewood can be purchased on their website @:

http://www.tanglewoodbooks.com/picture.html

Or on amazon.com