A Walk Between Raindrops Review

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

PUBLISH DATE: June 27, 2023

Synopsis

Fourteen days. Ten parks. Two sisters.
One chance to make things right.

Seventeen-year-old Elise and her younger sister Wylla haven’t spoken to one another in almost a year. Wylla refuses to forgive Elise for everything that happened last fall, but when they both win an all-expense paid trip to ten of the best amusement parks in the country to ride rollercoasters, Elise thinks it could be a way for them to finally reconnect.

As the pair set off with a ragtag group of misfits—including a licorice-eating biker, a doe-eyed sorority president, and an Irish guy who’s as sweet as a cinnamon roll—Elise hopes the hours of confinement in the back of a van might finally provide an opportunity to heal her relationship with Wylla. But Elise is struggling to recover from a trauma of her own, and Wylla has a secret that could derail Elise’s plans. As the girls navigate the ups and downs of their long history, will Elise find a way to reconnect with Wylla, or will she lose her sister, and her sanity, forever?

Review

A Walk Between Raindrops by Amalie John is an emotional and touching story about two estranged sisters, Elise and Wylla, who embark on a journey of healing during an all-expense paid trip to ten amusement parks. Despite their strained relationship, Elise hopes that the confined space and shared experiences will provide an opportunity for them to reconnect. However, both sisters are carrying their own burdens, and their journey becomes a test of their resilience and their bond.

One of the strengths of the book is its ability to capture the complex emotions of the characters, balancing teenage angst with the more mature feelings of loss and isolation. Elise’s struggles with trauma and her feelings of inadequacy are portrayed with authenticity, allowing readers to empathize with her journey of self-discovery. The exploration of grief, friendship, and forgiveness adds depth to the story and creates a resonant emotional experience.

The author’s writing style is engaging and well-crafted, making the book a fast and compelling read. The romance between Elise and Seamus is delicately woven into the narrative, complementing the main themes without overpowering them. The surprise ending adds an additional layer of intrigue and leaves a lasting impression.

While the story succeeds in delivering an emotional and heartfelt tale, there are some minor editing issues that could have been addressed. Additionally, more attention to world-building could have enhanced the overall experience.

In conclusion, A Walk Between Raindrops is a poignant and well-written novel that explores the complexities of sisterhood, grief, and forgiveness. With its relatable characters and compelling storyline, it captures the essence of teenage struggles while resonating with readers of all ages. Despite some minor editing issues, the book succeeds in delivering an emotional and satisfying reading experience, leaving a lasting impression on its readers.