Although not a typical beach read, I read Night Watching, Sierra’s debut, on a beach last year and absolutely ate it up. The pacing, the depth, the quality of writing, made me instantly add Sierra as an author to watch and maybe even an emerging favorite new voice. It all hinges on the sophomore novel. Can it hold up? Can this author hit so hard back to back? And I’m absolutely thrilled to say that she’s done it again folks!! Warning Signs is told through the perspective of 12 year old Zach, on a ski trip with his father. Along the way we learn and he learns that maybe his father isn’t what he seems to be. His late mother has taught him to understand nature, and to be smart and safe in the wild, and he has to rely on all the lessons she imparted onto him to get through this trip with his father and his obnoxious friends. I do gravitate towards narratives told through children’s perspectives. I like how it threads that needle of propelling the plot and even though us, the reader, starts to pick up on some nefarious things, it takes the main character longer to understand their reality. I adore the atmosphere of the snowy mountain terrain, even if it’s scary, and the main character Zach is just such a compelling and sweet voice you just can’t help but root for him. Two five stars back to back is a pretty impressive feat, and Sierra has done it! I just genuinely can’t wait to see what she does next, because I’ll be first in line to read it!!

Brilliant second outing by Tracy! Perfect , atmospheric read featuring a wonderful brave preteen protagonist. This is literary thriller at its finest.

All I can say is, WOW! The way I devoured this book. I wasn’t sure what I was heading into, having read no description of this book at all and being blown away by Sierra’s first book, but it didn’t take me long at all to fall into this masterfully crafted story of suspense, wild (but realistic) family dynamics, gorgeous descriptions, and a natural setting that made me feel cold even in the warmth of my own home.

There was so much gritty, visceral emotion in this book that I’m sure many out there can relate to. Feelings of inadequacy brought on by an unrealistic, delusional, and unforgiving parent, coming to grips with the death of another parent and all the complex feelings that come along with recognizing that parent’s misgivings, and most importantly the pull to protect, to maintain a sense of self, even when someone treats you badly.

I loved every minute of this book. Such a great job. There were moments when my heart was pounding out of my chest in fear, or I was recoiling in anger. It takes a skilled author to elicit that sort of response. Can’t wait to read Sierra’s next book!