I would like to thank Netgalley and Algonquin Young Reader Publishers for sending me this E-ARC in return for an honest review.

Honestly I wish I could have gotten myself to read it more, but sadly the story wasn't drawing me in, and reminded me quite a bit of a TV show I loved call Heartland. I can see the premise of the story is promising, but for me personally I found the writing style a bit boring and the story was not drawing me in. I would like to add that I did not finish the book.

Stopped reading on page 120.

This book stopped me in its track with its stunning cover. I was busy at work, checking my email, and I instantly spotted this one. Very eye-catching and it definitely made me want to read it. Added it to my wishlist and played the waiting game. Then one fine glorious morning it was sitting there in my queue waiting for it to be read. The anticipation had me on the edge of my non-existent seat and shaking with excitement. My excitement didn't last very long and it took me days and days to make it to page 120. With tears in my eyes, I threw in the towel.

I feel as if I can’t accurately rate and judge this book. My taste in ya has changed drastically within the past couple of months and I really can’t get into most of those reads lately. I'm not sure what it is but my heart belongs to horror, thriller, and anything with bizarre twists. Sadly, it wasn't this one. This seems as if it’s going to be good but I just can’t sink into it. Felt myself sliding into a slump and I can’t have that right now.

This has the most beautiful cover and this rep is something we don't usually see in books and I love it. Within those pages, a lot didn't happen and I needed more action or dirty secrets revealed. Younger me would have loved every page of this. Older me couldn't get into it right now. It might be one I revisit to see if my tastes change back to where they were previously.

A book with solid prose, a gorgeous cover, and deep intrigue compelling the plot. My primary struggle was connecting with the characters. Felt a bit like reading a TV drama. Which I imagine will land well with the intended audience.

Fantastic. Students love thrillers and as the teacher, I love the Deaf representation. There are also great characters that I was a bit sad to say goodbye to at the end.

The mysteries of this book- of the characters and families- are what makes this a read you don’t want to put down. I needed to know what was going to happen between Owl and Cody. I needed to know what secrets Owl’s parents were keeping. And the atmosphere of the book is beautiful, cozy in a way I want it to be, with snow, and forest creatures, and warm gatherings with male syrup. I want more to read from this author who makes characters so intriguing and familiar at the same time. I plan on reliving this tale during the winter months as the aesthetic will be spot on.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me the opportunity to read and review this novel. I am rating this book based the stars due to lack of time to leave a full review. #NetGalley #SugaringOff

Incredible story of overcoming and the importance of having someone who truly cares about you. Our students tap and make syrup as a yearly tradition and this may be a great addition to our YA collection.

Cautions: Mild curse words; anger, abuse

#SugaringOff Thank you to #NetGalley for the eARC.