How do you survive the worst thing that can ever happen?
When thirteen-year-old Katie McCabe’s dad gets sick and is hospitalized, she’s sent to live with her uncle in a strange town. But within days of arriving, her dad unexpectedly dies.
Struggling with her new reality, Katie is lost. She doesn't fit in at her new home and never will.
It only gets worse when Katie starts her freshman year of high school and begins to have run-ins with the son of the man who owns the town—a powerful man with ties to her family’s past.
Then one day, she is attacked from behind. Blindfolded and slung across the back of a horse, Katie is taken up into the hills. Dumped in the middle of the wilderness in an oncoming storm, she is left to find her way home. But how will she survive?
On sale now from Vesuvian Books
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“[With] flawed, fascinating people young readers will relate to and care about, Gardner offers enticing reasons to follow on their paths in future series entries.” ~Booklife Review by Publishers Weekly, Editor’s Pick
“Gardner explores the turbulent teen years masterfully.” ~Kirkus
“Gardner’s hero is more realistic than good, and readers will be drawn to the raw truth of her struggles.”
~Children's Literature
“[Rain Falling on Embers] will keep kids reading and talking. It does an admirable job of balancing heavy topics with a dash of humor and a big dose of adventure.” ~IndieReader (4.5/5)
“This captivating tale of human endurance is a wonderful read for both young and old.” ~Booktrib
“A cleverly plotted novel with a strong, memorable protagonist. Highly recommended!” ~The Wishing Shelf (UK)
“A realistic, heartfelt, and serious drama the likes of which I’ve never seen in middle-grade fiction before.”
~K.C. Finn, USA Today Bestselling author
“What might seem like a typical troubled teen story turns into something unique and unexpected.” ~Los Angeles Book Review
“A marvelous novel. The most important message the book conveys is that every kid deserves to be surrounded by the love and support of their family.” ~LitPick
“Katie’s beautiful yet difficult personality is portrayed with authenticity and integrity. This powerful novel shows that a child can endure loneliness, change, and loss.” ~Emma’s Insights
Past Praise and Awards
“Reads like a National Treasure and Spy Kids movie combined.” ~School Library Journal
“Filled with achingly relatable tween moments.” ~Publishers Weekly
· Bram Stoker Award Nominee for Superior Achievement in a Young Adult Novel
· Nautilus Book Awards Winner · IPPY Award Winner
Purchase Info: IPG 800.888.4741/ipgbook.com