I just finished The Wishing Pearl, and wow, what a journey! Olivia’s story starts off rocky but completely captivating. From the very first page, I was drawn into her mind and aching heart. The first three chapters were tough to get through—Nicole O'Dell tackles some really heavy stuff—but she handles it with such care and grace.

As Olivia faces one tough choice after another, her life spirals from bad to worse. But just when things feel hopeless, rays of light start shining through. A fresh start and a growing desire to seek God bring glimmers of hope that had me rooting for her every step of the way.

This is easily one of the most beautifully-woven YA novels I’ve ever read. Right and wrong wage a heartfelt battle in Olivia’s mind and heart as she searches for peace, love, and hope. It’s such a touching story about finding the path to healing, and it feels so real.

I’ll admit, some parts were hard to read. There were moments when I didn’t even want to turn the page, afraid of what might happen next. But the way the author lets light break through the darkness—subtle, surprising, and so meaningful—was breathtaking.

The ending was absolutely lovely. Olivia’s voice stays true to the very end, and when God’s love and truth finally triumph, it brought tears to my eyes. This story was a rollercoaster, but it’s one worth riding. Truly a beautiful, heartwarming read!

A young adult, sixteen year old Olivia Mansfield is trapped in a downward spiral. A dysfunctional home-life with her mother and stepfather leads her into unhealthy places and choices. Convinced to become a resident of Diamond Estates, a home for troubled teens, the way is open for positive changes if she can leap the hurdles encountered

A Barbour ARC via NetGalley