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R.I.P. Eliza Hart
When Eliza Hart, the most popular girl at Ventana Ranch boarding school, is found dead on the cliffs outside her dormitory, Ellie Sokoloff is determined to figure out what happened to her. After all, Eliza was Ellie’s childhood best friend.
Never mind that ever since Ellie arrived at school Eliza has spread terrible rumors about her, calling her a liar and a stalker, when all Ellie wanted to do was rekindle their old friendship. Or that Ellie’s claustrophobia limits where she can go and what she can do. Or that Ellie’s suitemate, Sam, is the only one who will help her . . . because to everyone else, Ellie looks like the top suspect.
Can Ellie clear her name and solve the mystery behind Eliza’s death? Her hunt for the truth will uncover secrets she never imagined, sending her deep into her own memories of her childhood with Eliza Hart.
New York Times bestselling author Alyssa Sheinmel delivers a gripping mystery and a sensitive and moving examination of the secrets that can hold us back—and even destroy us.
Never mind that ever since Ellie arrived at school Eliza has spread terrible rumors about her, calling her a liar and a stalker, when all Ellie wanted to do was rekindle their old friendship. Or that Ellie’s claustrophobia limits where she can go and what she can do. Or that Ellie’s suitemate, Sam, is the only one who will help her . . . because to everyone else, Ellie looks like the top suspect.
Can Ellie clear her name and solve the mystery behind Eliza’s death? Her hunt for the truth will uncover secrets she never imagined, sending her deep into her own memories of her childhood with Eliza Hart.
New York Times bestselling author Alyssa Sheinmel delivers a gripping mystery and a sensitive and moving examination of the secrets that can hold us back—and even destroy us.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published November 28, 2017
105 people are currently reading
3038 people want to read
About the author
Alyssa Sheinmel
21 books800 followersAlyssa Sheinmel is the New York Times bestselling author of several novels for young adults, including A Danger to Herself and Others and Faceless, as well as the adult novel Such Sheltered Lives. Alyssa grew up in Northern California and New York, and currently lives and writes in New York. Follow her on Instagram @alyssasheinmel or visit her online at www.alyssasheinmel.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 239 reviews
February 21, 2024
The appeal of the convenient, all-access “…narrow streets on the narrow island of Manhattan” is almost irrelevant for someone uncomfortable (at best) in enclosed spaces. Hopeful that her home state would help her open doors that claustrophobia kept firmly closed, Ellie accepts a scholarship to attend a tiny boarding school buffered by redwoods, opening wide above the Pacific Ocean.
Alone, Ellie explores the other dorms. A parental accompaniment would have been cool, but her issues have taken up too much of their time anyway. She will make friends here, none of these students know of her problems. Actually, she even sees a name she knows and suddenly, Ellie has something to look forward to: reconnecting with Eliza Hart.
Awkwardness should be the worse-case-scenario. Eliza may not have fond memories of her former childhood friend, she may not even remember Ellie at all. Appearing angry and almost personally offended that Ellie dare approach her, Eliza obviously loathes Ellie. In fact, she’s already told everyone on campus that Ellie is a vicious, pathological liar and students should simply steer clear.
Stunned, shattered, struggling with her sanity, Ellie has to know why. Even as Eliza’s body is recovered from the cliffside and speculations swirl around campus, Ellie cannot stop searching for answers. As she uncovers Eliza’s best kept secret, Ellie’s own repression is revealed, changing her perspective on absolutely everything.
R.I.P. Eliza Hart is an outstanding YA novel because, as narrators of their own stories, Eliza and Ellie explain actualities of mental illness in a way that everyone can understand and empathize with. Misconceptions, such as medicine plus therapy equal a cure, are corrected…without sounding like a somber after-school-special. And the awesome element of something decidedly different, redwood burl poachers.
This review was written for Buried Under Books by jv poore.
Alone, Ellie explores the other dorms. A parental accompaniment would have been cool, but her issues have taken up too much of their time anyway. She will make friends here, none of these students know of her problems. Actually, she even sees a name she knows and suddenly, Ellie has something to look forward to: reconnecting with Eliza Hart.
Awkwardness should be the worse-case-scenario. Eliza may not have fond memories of her former childhood friend, she may not even remember Ellie at all. Appearing angry and almost personally offended that Ellie dare approach her, Eliza obviously loathes Ellie. In fact, she’s already told everyone on campus that Ellie is a vicious, pathological liar and students should simply steer clear.
Stunned, shattered, struggling with her sanity, Ellie has to know why. Even as Eliza’s body is recovered from the cliffside and speculations swirl around campus, Ellie cannot stop searching for answers. As she uncovers Eliza’s best kept secret, Ellie’s own repression is revealed, changing her perspective on absolutely everything.
R.I.P. Eliza Hart is an outstanding YA novel because, as narrators of their own stories, Eliza and Ellie explain actualities of mental illness in a way that everyone can understand and empathize with. Misconceptions, such as medicine plus therapy equal a cure, are corrected…without sounding like a somber after-school-special. And the awesome element of something decidedly different, redwood burl poachers.
This review was written for Buried Under Books by jv poore.
July 7, 2018
RIP Eliza Hart by Alyssa Sheinmel is one of those strange books that’s compelling, yet ultimately unsatisfying.
When the titular Eliza Hart is found dead, Ellie Sokoloff is obsessed with solving the mystery of her ex-bestie’s death. Was it murder? A tragic accident? I mean, it couldn’t possibly be suicide. Eliza Hart had it all. Looks, money, popularity. The teenage hat trick. But as Ellie unravels the details of Eliza’s life, somehow the truth slips further from her grasp. For example, Eliza’s mysterious boyfriend wasn’t the college guy her friends assumed. But a local surfer involved in a tree theft operation. And Mean Girl Eliza apparently was scared….of Ellie? To her classmates, “Stalker Ellie” is suspect numero uno. If she’s going to clear her name, Ellie must discover the truth behind Eliza’s lies. Before it’s too late.
As with most mysteries, the why of it all drives the story. Eliza is a fascinating, albeit puzzling character. And the desire to figure her out provides the central narrative thread. However, just because a story is unputdownable doesn’t make it good or worthwhile. With the exception of Eliza, characters are dull, irritating or one-dimensional. Ellie suffers from severe claustrophobia. But instead of it being one aspect of Ellie’s character, it defines her entire persona. Now maybe that’s reality for phobics. That whatever scares them becomes their entire existence. However that doesn’t make for an interesting book character. Characters need shades of gray and layers to be compelling. And Ellie’s overwhelming focus on her disorder removes that.
Like Ellie, her roommate Sam, is similarly underdeveloped. Yes, he’s given a tragic backstory. But that backstory does nothing but furnish detail. It has no bearing on his actual character. Instead Sam is reduced to a sidekick. The Watson to Ellie’s Holmes. Her Gal Friday. Sam jokes that he’s Ellie’s chauffeur, but here’s the rub: that’s pretty much what he is. Sam lives to serve Ellie and has no existence beyond that. He’s there to be Ellie’s sounding board and spout comforting platitudes. He has no real personality or motivation. Sam’s just kinda….there.
So yeah, by the end I just felt vaguely empty. Like when you’re on a diet and dying for chocolate, so eat fat-free, carob, chocolate-like substitute. You ate it. You’re full. But disappointment lingers and your craving remains.
Summary: Read this if you’re a mystery lover, but don’t expect any deeper connection.
When the titular Eliza Hart is found dead, Ellie Sokoloff is obsessed with solving the mystery of her ex-bestie’s death. Was it murder? A tragic accident? I mean, it couldn’t possibly be suicide. Eliza Hart had it all. Looks, money, popularity. The teenage hat trick. But as Ellie unravels the details of Eliza’s life, somehow the truth slips further from her grasp. For example, Eliza’s mysterious boyfriend wasn’t the college guy her friends assumed. But a local surfer involved in a tree theft operation. And Mean Girl Eliza apparently was scared….of Ellie? To her classmates, “Stalker Ellie” is suspect numero uno. If she’s going to clear her name, Ellie must discover the truth behind Eliza’s lies. Before it’s too late.
As with most mysteries, the why of it all drives the story. Eliza is a fascinating, albeit puzzling character. And the desire to figure her out provides the central narrative thread. However, just because a story is unputdownable doesn’t make it good or worthwhile. With the exception of Eliza, characters are dull, irritating or one-dimensional. Ellie suffers from severe claustrophobia. But instead of it being one aspect of Ellie’s character, it defines her entire persona. Now maybe that’s reality for phobics. That whatever scares them becomes their entire existence. However that doesn’t make for an interesting book character. Characters need shades of gray and layers to be compelling. And Ellie’s overwhelming focus on her disorder removes that.
Like Ellie, her roommate Sam, is similarly underdeveloped. Yes, he’s given a tragic backstory. But that backstory does nothing but furnish detail. It has no bearing on his actual character. Instead Sam is reduced to a sidekick. The Watson to Ellie’s Holmes. Her Gal Friday. Sam jokes that he’s Ellie’s chauffeur, but here’s the rub: that’s pretty much what he is. Sam lives to serve Ellie and has no existence beyond that. He’s there to be Ellie’s sounding board and spout comforting platitudes. He has no real personality or motivation. Sam’s just kinda….there.
So yeah, by the end I just felt vaguely empty. Like when you’re on a diet and dying for chocolate, so eat fat-free, carob, chocolate-like substitute. You ate it. You’re full. But disappointment lingers and your craving remains.
Summary: Read this if you’re a mystery lover, but don’t expect any deeper connection.
January 9, 2018
5/5 Stars
Trigger Warning: Suicide, Depression, Claustrophobia, and minor PTSD.
This book follows Ellie who is going to school in the beautiful Santa Cruz Mountains to try and help herself with her extreme claustrophobia. Her former childhood best friend, Eliza, is found dead. Ellie and Eliza haven't been close in years, though Ellie doesn't know when or why the fallout between the two girls happened. This novel follows Ellie as she kind of takes it upon herself to figure out what really happened to Eliza.
This novel flowed so perfectly that I had a hard time putting it down. It also takes place in the hometown I grew up in, which was very nostalgic for me. I felt that Alyssa did a wonderful job accurately depicting depression and anxiety without sugar coating. Being someone who struggles with mental illness, it is nice seeing the real, raw and dark side of it in a book. And for it to be done so well was another cherry on top. Overall, this book was an incredible journey from very diverse characters and I can't recommend this enough.
Trigger Warning: Suicide, Depression, Claustrophobia, and minor PTSD.
This book follows Ellie who is going to school in the beautiful Santa Cruz Mountains to try and help herself with her extreme claustrophobia. Her former childhood best friend, Eliza, is found dead. Ellie and Eliza haven't been close in years, though Ellie doesn't know when or why the fallout between the two girls happened. This novel follows Ellie as she kind of takes it upon herself to figure out what really happened to Eliza.
This novel flowed so perfectly that I had a hard time putting it down. It also takes place in the hometown I grew up in, which was very nostalgic for me. I felt that Alyssa did a wonderful job accurately depicting depression and anxiety without sugar coating. Being someone who struggles with mental illness, it is nice seeing the real, raw and dark side of it in a book. And for it to be done so well was another cherry on top. Overall, this book was an incredible journey from very diverse characters and I can't recommend this enough.
December 1, 2017
This book was everything I expected and more. I expected a good mystery story. I got that, and an amazing book that deals with mental health.
I picked this up at bookcon when they were handing them out, so thank you to the publisher for handing these out for review. This book is about a girl with mental issues she conceals, which isn't helped by the fact that she has many social issues too. Then there is Eliza Hart, the girl who hides everything, makes Ellie feel like crap throughout high school, and is very emotionally unstable, for reasons revealed bit by bit throughout the book, constantly leaving you awestruck.
This book dives into family backgrounds and how mental diseases can be hereditary, which many people do not realize. One major thing I think needs to be taken away from this book is to never be afraid to get help. The author is very respectful to people with mental illness in this book, and handles suicide much better than some other young adult books about suicide. The author mentions the suicide hotline at the end of the book.
The characters themselves are very complex, all mental illnesses aside. The supporting cast of characters add to the story greatly, and make this book even more captivating. The author definitely knows how to write amazingly interesting characters, (and their relationships) which is proven by Ellie and Eliza. I highly suggest this book if you like stories that have very well developed characters you start to relate to.
The writing is also just simply amazing. The author entices you with amazing story lines and exciting "twists" that make you want more. Twist might not be the right word for it. Sheinmel creates a complex story that, when something is revealed about the past (or present) it leaves you breathless.
Can we also just mention how beautiful the cover is? It is so simple yet so deep, and the image reflects the story so well.
This book is an emotional ride and I will be glad to buy the finished version of on its release in November. Highly emotional, R.I.P. Eliza Hart is a must-read in my opinion.
Edit: Owning the hardcover makes me so happy!
I picked this up at bookcon when they were handing them out, so thank you to the publisher for handing these out for review. This book is about a girl with mental issues she conceals, which isn't helped by the fact that she has many social issues too. Then there is Eliza Hart, the girl who hides everything, makes Ellie feel like crap throughout high school, and is very emotionally unstable, for reasons revealed bit by bit throughout the book, constantly leaving you awestruck.
This book dives into family backgrounds and how mental diseases can be hereditary, which many people do not realize. One major thing I think needs to be taken away from this book is to never be afraid to get help. The author is very respectful to people with mental illness in this book, and handles suicide much better than some other young adult books about suicide. The author mentions the suicide hotline at the end of the book.
The characters themselves are very complex, all mental illnesses aside. The supporting cast of characters add to the story greatly, and make this book even more captivating. The author definitely knows how to write amazingly interesting characters, (and their relationships) which is proven by Ellie and Eliza. I highly suggest this book if you like stories that have very well developed characters you start to relate to.
The writing is also just simply amazing. The author entices you with amazing story lines and exciting "twists" that make you want more. Twist might not be the right word for it. Sheinmel creates a complex story that, when something is revealed about the past (or present) it leaves you breathless.
Can we also just mention how beautiful the cover is? It is so simple yet so deep, and the image reflects the story so well.
This book is an emotional ride and I will be glad to buy the finished version of on its release in November. Highly emotional, R.I.P. Eliza Hart is a must-read in my opinion.
Edit: Owning the hardcover makes me so happy!
March 16, 2018
Going into this book, I was expecting a mystery. It sounded like Ellie wanted to clear her name and would go all Nancy Drew and solve the case. And while that is partially true, it was more a book about mental illness, friendship, and family.
I thought this book did a good job conveying mental illness in a way that wasn't preachy, blamey, or glamorizing. I'm sure that's a tough thing to accomplish, and I give Alyssa Sheinmel all the props for achieving it. I don't have depression or claustrophobia, so I can't speak to the accuracy of the portrayal, but from my perspective as an outsider, it felt well done.
What I thought this book didn't need: Sam. The guy roommate that became a love interest never felt right to me. They weren't friends, never really even talked, before Ellie became enemy number 1, and then all of a sudden he's her rock to lean on?? It's not that I didn't like Sam as a character, it's that I didn't feel like their development to fast friends and more was believable. Not every story needs a romance, and this might have been one of them.
I would say the best part of this book was really delving into the why of everything. With the mystery not being all that mysterious, we really get to focus on Eliza and everything she was dealing with. I felt a lot of emotions reading these parts because Ellie would have been there for Eliza, but never got the chance.
OVERALL: The lack of mystery may have detracted from my enjoyment just a tad-- as did the random unneeded romance and the "I don't know I'm pretty" pretty girl, but I still would recommend it. The emotional journey and portrayal of mental health is what made this book worth reading.
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I thought this book did a good job conveying mental illness in a way that wasn't preachy, blamey, or glamorizing. I'm sure that's a tough thing to accomplish, and I give Alyssa Sheinmel all the props for achieving it. I don't have depression or claustrophobia, so I can't speak to the accuracy of the portrayal, but from my perspective as an outsider, it felt well done.
What I thought this book didn't need: Sam. The guy roommate that became a love interest never felt right to me. They weren't friends, never really even talked, before Ellie became enemy number 1, and then all of a sudden he's her rock to lean on?? It's not that I didn't like Sam as a character, it's that I didn't feel like their development to fast friends and more was believable. Not every story needs a romance, and this might have been one of them.
I would say the best part of this book was really delving into the why of everything. With the mystery not being all that mysterious, we really get to focus on Eliza and everything she was dealing with. I felt a lot of emotions reading these parts because Ellie would have been there for Eliza, but never got the chance.
OVERALL: The lack of mystery may have detracted from my enjoyment just a tad-- as did the random unneeded romance and the "I don't know I'm pretty" pretty girl, but I still would recommend it. The emotional journey and portrayal of mental health is what made this book worth reading.
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December 15, 2017
I thought this was going to be a simple mystery of how Eliza Hart died, but there was so much more to this story. It was at times really intense, and many things in this book resonated with me.
•Pro: I love boarding school books, and this one was epically located in Big Sur. If it was real, I would want to go there.
•Pro: Adding Eliza's POV from the beyond really brought a lot of depth to the story. Sure, Sheinmel could have recounted many of the things Eliza revealed via a second hand account, but the impact was so much greater coming straight from Eliza.
•Pro: Sam intrigued me. I was worried about him at time, and not sure about his motives, but eventually, I fell in love with him.
•Pro: There were quite a few mysterious threads in this story. Who killed Eliza? Why did she lie about Ellie? What was the root of Ellie's claustrophobia? And I am happy to report all those questions are answered.
•Pro: Mental health rep is one of the only reps I will comment on, because I live it, and I thought the emotions of those suffering from mental health issues were conveyed so well. The frustration of trying pill after pill, doctor after doctor, treatment after treatment, and you still are not well. I really related to Ellie and Eliza's feelings of failure, helplessness, and hopelessness.
•Pro: It was an important and wise choice to include both girls' POVs, because they were both quite hopeless at some point, but one was able to find hope. I think showing that side was crucial to me as a reader.
•Pro: I appreciated the inclusion of how family and friends are affected by the mental health issues of their loved ones. It was an important point of view to include in this story.
•Pro: The ending was actually really great and realistic.
Overall: A compelling mystery, filled with some complicated characters and an honest look at mental health.
*I would like to thank the publisher for the advanced copy of this book.
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•Pro: I love boarding school books, and this one was epically located in Big Sur. If it was real, I would want to go there.
•Pro: Adding Eliza's POV from the beyond really brought a lot of depth to the story. Sure, Sheinmel could have recounted many of the things Eliza revealed via a second hand account, but the impact was so much greater coming straight from Eliza.
•Pro: Sam intrigued me. I was worried about him at time, and not sure about his motives, but eventually, I fell in love with him.
•Pro: There were quite a few mysterious threads in this story. Who killed Eliza? Why did she lie about Ellie? What was the root of Ellie's claustrophobia? And I am happy to report all those questions are answered.
•Pro: Mental health rep is one of the only reps I will comment on, because I live it, and I thought the emotions of those suffering from mental health issues were conveyed so well. The frustration of trying pill after pill, doctor after doctor, treatment after treatment, and you still are not well. I really related to Ellie and Eliza's feelings of failure, helplessness, and hopelessness.
•Pro: It was an important and wise choice to include both girls' POVs, because they were both quite hopeless at some point, but one was able to find hope. I think showing that side was crucial to me as a reader.
•Pro: I appreciated the inclusion of how family and friends are affected by the mental health issues of their loved ones. It was an important point of view to include in this story.
•Pro: The ending was actually really great and realistic.
Overall: A compelling mystery, filled with some complicated characters and an honest look at mental health.
*I would like to thank the publisher for the advanced copy of this book.
BLOG | INSTAGRAM | BLOGLOVIN | FRIEND ME ON GOODREADS
August 1, 2017
This is no shadow of doubt my favorite contemporary read for 2017 this far!
For the book blurb click Here (GoodReads)
I am so in awe that it is almost hard to write the review. I feel like I won't give it justice.
R.I.P Eliza Hart is about (mainly) two girls with mental issues. Ellie, who suffers from claustrophobia due to a traumatic experience we don't figure out till the end of the book. And Eliza, who was emotionally unstable for reasons revealed slowly throughout the book.
It impressed me how much background story is given to both main characters in just a few hundred pages. I felt Ellie's pain thorough the pages and I was always curious to know what would happen next. She was a wonderful and easy character to relate to. As was Sam, her roommate, friend, and eventually love interest. The romance story happening on the side between those two is adorable. I was gushing and blushing while reading their interactions. Utterly cute!
Eliza was just as well written. Her character is a little darker. A little more disturbed. A little harder to understand. But as we find out more about her and about her family we began to understand it all better. We began to understand her better...
I found Alyssa Sheinmel's description of both girls issues profoundly touching and respectful. There aren't many young adult authors out there that can write on such subjects in a realistic and yet light hearted way, she does that perfectly. I also loved that she dives into Eliza's family's background in order to explain Eliza's issues. I don't think many people realize that certain mental problems are/can be hereditary.
It is my belief that the main message in the book was to never be afraid or ashamed to ask for help. And that was done beautifully!
Everyone that has suffered from depression has difficulties talking about it. Both because it is not an easy subject and because of the bad rep it receives. So to have this done so well was fantastic!
I will be recommending this to everyone I know who enjoys contemporaries and/or realisticsbooks! Go Read!
For more reviews from me visit glimpsesofmybooks.blogspot.com
For the book blurb click Here (GoodReads)
I am so in awe that it is almost hard to write the review. I feel like I won't give it justice.
R.I.P Eliza Hart is about (mainly) two girls with mental issues. Ellie, who suffers from claustrophobia due to a traumatic experience we don't figure out till the end of the book. And Eliza, who was emotionally unstable for reasons revealed slowly throughout the book.
It impressed me how much background story is given to both main characters in just a few hundred pages. I felt Ellie's pain thorough the pages and I was always curious to know what would happen next. She was a wonderful and easy character to relate to. As was Sam, her roommate, friend, and eventually love interest. The romance story happening on the side between those two is adorable. I was gushing and blushing while reading their interactions. Utterly cute!
Eliza was just as well written. Her character is a little darker. A little more disturbed. A little harder to understand. But as we find out more about her and about her family we began to understand it all better. We began to understand her better...
I found Alyssa Sheinmel's description of both girls issues profoundly touching and respectful. There aren't many young adult authors out there that can write on such subjects in a realistic and yet light hearted way, she does that perfectly. I also loved that she dives into Eliza's family's background in order to explain Eliza's issues. I don't think many people realize that certain mental problems are/can be hereditary.
It is my belief that the main message in the book was to never be afraid or ashamed to ask for help. And that was done beautifully!
Everyone that has suffered from depression has difficulties talking about it. Both because it is not an easy subject and because of the bad rep it receives. So to have this done so well was fantastic!
I will be recommending this to everyone I know who enjoys contemporaries and/or realisticsbooks! Go Read!
For more reviews from me visit glimpsesofmybooks.blogspot.com
April 20, 2019
3.5 stars
TW: Suicide, Depression, Bipolar Disorder & Claustrophobia
This was an interesting book for me and I was really intrigued by the mystery of what actually happened to Eliza Hart. I was able to guess what happened but kept hoping the book would surprise me but unfortunately it wasn't quite able to. While I enjoyed the ride of reading this and found it really interesting to read about a character who is diagnosed with claustrophobia, the actual execution of the book was lackluster.
Something about the writing was just off-putting to me. I found the dialogue to be clunky and awkward just enough times for me to notice. The insta-love was really apparent in this and I actually think the romantic element could've been done well had it been done differently. But as it is, it was just another awkward part of the book.
Like I said I appreciated the claustrophobia rep in this but can't speak to how well it was done. Similarly I thought the portrayal of depression was well done in the sense that it showcased something other than the stereotypical way depression is often shown in media. However I really felt like Bipolar disorder wasn't shown the same (attempted?) care as written as (to me) it felt kind of demonized.
Overall I did enjoy reading this, like I said I enjoyed the mystery aspect and that kept me reading, but I didn't think the rest of the book was as well done as it could've been. I'd recommend this if you're new to thrillers & already enjoy contemporary books about mental illness..
TW: Suicide, Depression, Bipolar Disorder & Claustrophobia
This was an interesting book for me and I was really intrigued by the mystery of what actually happened to Eliza Hart. I was able to guess what happened but kept hoping the book would surprise me but unfortunately it wasn't quite able to. While I enjoyed the ride of reading this and found it really interesting to read about a character who is diagnosed with claustrophobia, the actual execution of the book was lackluster.
Something about the writing was just off-putting to me. I found the dialogue to be clunky and awkward just enough times for me to notice. The insta-love was really apparent in this and I actually think the romantic element could've been done well had it been done differently. But as it is, it was just another awkward part of the book.
Like I said I appreciated the claustrophobia rep in this but can't speak to how well it was done. Similarly I thought the portrayal of depression was well done in the sense that it showcased something other than the stereotypical way depression is often shown in media. However I really felt like Bipolar disorder wasn't shown the same (attempted?) care as written as (to me) it felt kind of demonized.
Overall I did enjoy reading this, like I said I enjoyed the mystery aspect and that kept me reading, but I didn't think the rest of the book was as well done as it could've been. I'd recommend this if you're new to thrillers & already enjoy contemporary books about mental illness..
June 10, 2018
I took this up expecting story about mental illness in teens, without the usual drama, and found teen drama about mental illness. And not written very well. I do not think either of illnesses was illustrated well enough and the book reads more like ya story about a pretty outcast girl that is coming to terms with herself than serious work of fiction going into depth describing life with crippling illnesses like claustrophobia and depression, despite the overwhelming percentage of the book in which they were discussed.
And the main character was such a crybaby. I can not shake the feeling story would have been much better if it was written from the perspective of Eliza's last few months.
All in all, thank you for trying to raise awareness of mental illnesses, but the book will still get "did not like it" from me.
And the main character was such a crybaby. I can not shake the feeling story would have been much better if it was written from the perspective of Eliza's last few months.
All in all, thank you for trying to raise awareness of mental illnesses, but the book will still get "did not like it" from me.
November 28, 2017
This will be a short review, because I don’t want to give anything away, and this is a slowly-unfolding mystery that is best experienced through reading it. I don’t want to spoil anything! So… I requested to join this blog tour because (1) I’d read Second Star by Alyssa a few years ago and really enjoyed it, and (2) I love mysteries and boarding school stories, and since this one had both I figured I couldn’t go wrong. I hadn’t expected the book to be so heavily focused on mental health issues, but I’m so glad I was able to have this reading experience. Although I say it is “heavily focused” on mental illness, I don’t mean to imply that it’s a heavy or super sad book, because amazingly enough it’s not. It’s a very well done portrait of mental illness in several forms, while also giving us a mystery you’re eager to see solved, a struggling-at-boarding-school experience, and even budding romance!
For several reasons, I really connected with the characters in this book, both Ellie and Eliza. I am claustrophobic myself, though I’ve never had such a severe form as Ellie does. I have, however, had a few panic attacks in small spaces, especially times when I’ve had to have MRIs (ugh I hate those). So I understood what Ellie was going through, even though my issue is not as severe as hers. I have also had experience with someone very similar to Eliza’s father (my brother-in-law), and I can say without a doubt that Alyssa’s portrayal of him and the effect on those around him was spot on. I was writing in the margins of my ARC very early on when he was on the page as to what I thought the issue was, and I turned out to be right. I know that’s very vague, but I really don’t want to give anything away.
Overall, I just want to get across that Alyssa’s portrayal of people struggling with, surviving with, and living fully with mental health issues is carefully drawn, sympathetic, and never maudlin. I’d recommend reading the author’s note at the end, in which Alyssa explains her thinking behind the book and some of the work she did to ensure accurate portrayals of various mental health issues. She also does a wonderful job showing how mental illness affects not only the person afflicted but also those around them, be they family or friends, co-workers or classmates. I highly recommend reading this book, even if you’re not one who normally enjoys “issue books.” It’s really not maudlin or overly heavy, nor is it preachy when dealing with a tough subject. The balancing act Alyssa strikes in this book with Eliza’s story is darn near perfect; I truly don’t think I’ve seen such a straightforward, unflinching, and sympathetic look at this issue in any book I’ve read before.
Again, I know this is rather vague, but I don’t want to give anything away and ruin the reading experience. I would just encourage you to check it out for yourself. It’s a relatively short, easy read, and I think you’ll find yourself quickly turning the pages just as I did. If you read R.I.P. Eliza Hart, I’d love to know what you think of it!
Rating: 4 stars!
Thank you to Scholastic Press for the ARC copy of this book for purposes of review. This is my honest and voluntary rating and review. Thanks also to Rockstar Book Tours for including me on the blog tour!
For several reasons, I really connected with the characters in this book, both Ellie and Eliza. I am claustrophobic myself, though I’ve never had such a severe form as Ellie does. I have, however, had a few panic attacks in small spaces, especially times when I’ve had to have MRIs (ugh I hate those). So I understood what Ellie was going through, even though my issue is not as severe as hers. I have also had experience with someone very similar to Eliza’s father (my brother-in-law), and I can say without a doubt that Alyssa’s portrayal of him and the effect on those around him was spot on. I was writing in the margins of my ARC very early on when he was on the page as to what I thought the issue was, and I turned out to be right. I know that’s very vague, but I really don’t want to give anything away.
Overall, I just want to get across that Alyssa’s portrayal of people struggling with, surviving with, and living fully with mental health issues is carefully drawn, sympathetic, and never maudlin. I’d recommend reading the author’s note at the end, in which Alyssa explains her thinking behind the book and some of the work she did to ensure accurate portrayals of various mental health issues. She also does a wonderful job showing how mental illness affects not only the person afflicted but also those around them, be they family or friends, co-workers or classmates. I highly recommend reading this book, even if you’re not one who normally enjoys “issue books.” It’s really not maudlin or overly heavy, nor is it preachy when dealing with a tough subject. The balancing act Alyssa strikes in this book with Eliza’s story is darn near perfect; I truly don’t think I’ve seen such a straightforward, unflinching, and sympathetic look at this issue in any book I’ve read before.
Again, I know this is rather vague, but I don’t want to give anything away and ruin the reading experience. I would just encourage you to check it out for yourself. It’s a relatively short, easy read, and I think you’ll find yourself quickly turning the pages just as I did. If you read R.I.P. Eliza Hart, I’d love to know what you think of it!
Rating: 4 stars!
Thank you to Scholastic Press for the ARC copy of this book for purposes of review. This is my honest and voluntary rating and review. Thanks also to Rockstar Book Tours for including me on the blog tour!
December 7, 2017
2.0 STARS
Ellie and Eliza are best friends in first grade, until Ellie moves across country to New York. Fast forward to junior year. Despite years of unsuccessful treatment for claustrophobia, Ellie returns to California on a scholarship to boarding school, not expecting to be reunited with her former friend. Instead of a joyous meeting, Eliza spreads false rumors. When Eliza’s death is investigated as a homicide, Ellie sets out to find answers.
RIP ELIZA HART was one of my most anticipated November releases and while parts of the story lived up to my expectations, I was disappointed. I enjoyed the style of Alyssa Sheinmel’s writings she cut corners with the plot for convenience sake. What boarding high school has coed dorm suites? Seriously. Never mind the private baths, living rooms and kitchenettes. College dorms aren’t even that spacious. Sam as Ellie’s roommate seemed like an easy way to make him a potential friend of love interest, but lazy, lazy writing.
Neither Ellie, Sam nor Eliza had fully formed personalities, though their backstories were interesting.
Told from both Ellie and dead Eliza’s points of view, the story of Eliza’s life and death unfold, and how the two teens’ relationship and stories intertwined.
The best part of RIP ELIZA HART is the manner in which Sheinmel handled mental illness, how treatment doesn’t always work, but the importance of continuing to pursue ease from symptoms. I was especially glad to see Eliza’s functional depression as part of the plot. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a character who appeared fine on the outside to her friends, but suffered greatly on the inside portrayed so well.
The way Sheinmel handled the ending was a bit of a letdown. RIP ELIZA HART is an average book that could have been a great one.
Ellie and Eliza are best friends in first grade, until Ellie moves across country to New York. Fast forward to junior year. Despite years of unsuccessful treatment for claustrophobia, Ellie returns to California on a scholarship to boarding school, not expecting to be reunited with her former friend. Instead of a joyous meeting, Eliza spreads false rumors. When Eliza’s death is investigated as a homicide, Ellie sets out to find answers.
RIP ELIZA HART was one of my most anticipated November releases and while parts of the story lived up to my expectations, I was disappointed. I enjoyed the style of Alyssa Sheinmel’s writings she cut corners with the plot for convenience sake. What boarding high school has coed dorm suites? Seriously. Never mind the private baths, living rooms and kitchenettes. College dorms aren’t even that spacious. Sam as Ellie’s roommate seemed like an easy way to make him a potential friend of love interest, but lazy, lazy writing.
Neither Ellie, Sam nor Eliza had fully formed personalities, though their backstories were interesting.
Told from both Ellie and dead Eliza’s points of view, the story of Eliza’s life and death unfold, and how the two teens’ relationship and stories intertwined.
The best part of RIP ELIZA HART is the manner in which Sheinmel handled mental illness, how treatment doesn’t always work, but the importance of continuing to pursue ease from symptoms. I was especially glad to see Eliza’s functional depression as part of the plot. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a character who appeared fine on the outside to her friends, but suffered greatly on the inside portrayed so well.
The way Sheinmel handled the ending was a bit of a letdown. RIP ELIZA HART is an average book that could have been a great one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2019
Incredibly amazing! I love everything about this book. Well written!
November 1, 2017
I am so glad I read this book. It's set in a boarding school, which is always a setting that intrigues me since I went to public school all my life. I'll be the first to admit the two girls, Ellie and Eliza confused me at first because their names were so similar, but after I figured out what was going on the reading was smooth sailing from there.
I had quite a bit in common with Ellie, I believe. Which immediately made me like her. She's claustrophobic, as am I. I'm not as bad as her, but I'm skittish about getting into an elevator, or being hugged too hard, and enclosed water slides make me panic to no end. Connecting with a book character through such a unique thing is wonderful, because I can understand exactly where she's coming from and just how tiresome it can be to be worried about whether you'll be put in a situation that triggers you.
R.I.P. Eliza Hart follows the story of two young girls named Ellie and Eliza. Eliza seems at first to be Ella's bully, but further on in the story your opinion will drastically change after the story begins to unfold.
I believe this to have one-upped 13 Reasons Why in every way imaginable. I've never seen a write be so spot on with mental health issues than Sheinmel has been. She approached it in a way that has class, and still leaves her characters with dignity and tact, all the while showing how mental illness not only affects the one who has it, but permeates the lives of others bearing witness the slow decline of their loved ones.
One thing that stood out to me, was that Sheinmel included the suicide hotline number at the end of the book. I strongly recommend this book to every YA and up out there, in place of 13 Reasons Why.
Disclaimer: I received this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions herein are of my own and are not swayed by any outside factors.
I had quite a bit in common with Ellie, I believe. Which immediately made me like her. She's claustrophobic, as am I. I'm not as bad as her, but I'm skittish about getting into an elevator, or being hugged too hard, and enclosed water slides make me panic to no end. Connecting with a book character through such a unique thing is wonderful, because I can understand exactly where she's coming from and just how tiresome it can be to be worried about whether you'll be put in a situation that triggers you.
R.I.P. Eliza Hart follows the story of two young girls named Ellie and Eliza. Eliza seems at first to be Ella's bully, but further on in the story your opinion will drastically change after the story begins to unfold.
I believe this to have one-upped 13 Reasons Why in every way imaginable. I've never seen a write be so spot on with mental health issues than Sheinmel has been. She approached it in a way that has class, and still leaves her characters with dignity and tact, all the while showing how mental illness not only affects the one who has it, but permeates the lives of others bearing witness the slow decline of their loved ones.
One thing that stood out to me, was that Sheinmel included the suicide hotline number at the end of the book. I strongly recommend this book to every YA and up out there, in place of 13 Reasons Why.
Disclaimer: I received this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions herein are of my own and are not swayed by any outside factors.
April 6, 2017
If you loved FACELESS, you'll love Alyssa's latest!
January 22, 2018
This was really good. Told from two perspectives, (both the victim and the main character/narrator) we see what happened to Eliza Hart. Easy to get into and included some twists and turns.
April 30, 2022
Trigger warning: this book touches on subjects of suicide (in a semi-graphic way), mental illness, depression, and bullying. The story follows a girl who is dealing with her own mental illness while uncovering the secret mental illness of one of her friends. I think the author did a good job on discussing these sensitive topics without over simplifying it or romanticizing it - definitely a balancing act. This was definitely a page turner, even though the ending was somewhat predictable. Would recommend for young adults and older.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 23, 2019
I almost skimmed this book which caused the middle rating. The reasons for this was a side story that put people in Eliza's life that was not quite necessary. The character which was a catalyst for Eliza could of been introduce without this plot. Also we get chapters from Eliza POV which really didnt give us clear answers on her state of mind. Also Elsie seems to think Eliza and her are long lost friends reunited at boarding school. In reality they were friends for about an year back when they were five.
At that time Elsie becomes claustrophobic and her mother's solution is to move across the country for a new beginning. This being the age before social media the girls lose touch only to be reunited at age seventeen at a boarding school. The way the author brought them back into each other live's seems forced. Also the girls have different memories of their brief friendship. I also didn't like the chapters with Eliza POV I dont feel it gave insight to her state of mind.
Why I read and didnt skim. I wanted Elsie to find the answers she was seeking that she made this friendship be bigger than what it really was just an quick friendship that faded away. As she learned about Eliza life she realizes something happened at her friend's house that was the root of her being afraid of enclosed spaces. As her mind gave up the memories of a five year old she learns just how her friend suffered from mental issues her whole life.
I learned that being claustrophobic is a mental issue too. When the author focused on this issue and the history of mental issue in Eliza's life the story was strong. When it veered off into side stories that didn't support or move the plot forward is where it was weak.
At that time Elsie becomes claustrophobic and her mother's solution is to move across the country for a new beginning. This being the age before social media the girls lose touch only to be reunited at age seventeen at a boarding school. The way the author brought them back into each other live's seems forced. Also the girls have different memories of their brief friendship. I also didn't like the chapters with Eliza POV I dont feel it gave insight to her state of mind.
Why I read and didnt skim. I wanted Elsie to find the answers she was seeking that she made this friendship be bigger than what it really was just an quick friendship that faded away. As she learned about Eliza life she realizes something happened at her friend's house that was the root of her being afraid of enclosed spaces. As her mind gave up the memories of a five year old she learns just how her friend suffered from mental issues her whole life.
I learned that being claustrophobic is a mental issue too. When the author focused on this issue and the history of mental issue in Eliza's life the story was strong. When it veered off into side stories that didn't support or move the plot forward is where it was weak.
January 3, 2018
This is one of those books that makes you think you’re getting one thing when in fact you are getting something entirely different. These characters are so real that you almost expect to find them in real life. Sheinmel’s writing is some of the most authentic I’ve ever read. I’m trying not to get into too much detail without spoiling the novel, but suffice it to say that this is so much more than your average young adult novel. It’s a story about friendship, survival, and acceptance. Everyone needs to read this book because it will be quite an eye opening endeavor for many.
April 11, 2019
I think a possible theme for this book is self-acceptance. Ellie has struggled with her claustrophobia for many years, she even moved across the country to get a fresh start. At her new school she tells no one about her phobia. But towards the end of the book when she realized that her former friend and most popular girl a her school commits suicide due to depression, she learns that she needs to accept who she is.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 12, 2017
The author has taken on various topics before but this one, mental illness, is personally close to my heart. She handles the issue well and weaves an engaging story that I wanted to keep reading long past when I had to set it down.
January 5, 2018
This is an important book. When I picked this up, I thought that this was just going to be a YA Mystery-Thriller, but it is so much more. R.I.P. Eliza Hart is about mental illness, depression, sadness, self worth, self value and abuse. This book made it all feel so real and so sad it made tears well in my eyes. This is for someone looking for a heavy read that will make you think. After reading this, I will definitely be reading more by Alyssa Sheinmel.
gave-up-on
July 27, 2022Not rated. Skimmed book to get an overall sense of it. A book about teen and adult mental illness and the stigma associated with it. Main characters were affluent teenagers at a private boarding school.
December 12, 2017
I don't come on Goodreads often, and when I do it's just to browse. But I couldn't not share my thoughts on this book - I just got it, and couldn't put it down. Alyssa Sheinmel makes the characters feel absolutely real - I am in their world and they are in mine. Chills!!
September 4, 2018
Quando Eliza Hart, la ragazza più popolare della scuola viene trovata morta ai piedi di una scogliera, le teorie su quello che potrebbe essere successo di sprecano.
Elli Sokoloff era stata amica di Eliza da bambina ma adesso il loro era diventato una rapporto di assoluta inamicizia. Proprio per questo alcune amiche di Eliza si convincono che lei possa centrare qualcosa con la sua morte.
Per far fronte alla situazione spiacevole Ellie decide di prendere misure drastiche: sarà lei stessa a risolve il mistero della morte di Eliza.
Non so bene come approcciarmi nel parlare di questo libro. Credo che mi sia piaciuto abbastanza. Sopratutto perchè lo stile è molto fluido e mi ha permesso di leggerlo molto velocemente.
Ma la sensazione che ne ho ricavato alla fine è stata di... incompletezza.
Il mistero della morte di Eliza si è rivelato più che altro il portante del cambiamento di Ellie e non il punto principale del racconto.
Il che ha reso la parte mistery davvero deludente.
Per quanto l'evoluzione del personaggio di Ellie sia molto buona, lei è effettivamente l'unica che si evolve. Questo perchè, nonostante l'autrice cerchi di mandare un messaggio chiaro sulla malattia mentale, il messaggio è arrivato solo a noi lettori, mentre il cast dei personaggi (Ellie e Sam esclusi) ne sono rimasti all'oscuro, rimanendo bloccati a quello che erano all'inizio del libro.
Il libro non mi ha delusa del tutto ma non ha mantenuto le aspettative che mi ero fatta all'inizio. Ne è risultata una lettura piacevole ma che non mi ha lasciato molto.
Elli Sokoloff era stata amica di Eliza da bambina ma adesso il loro era diventato una rapporto di assoluta inamicizia. Proprio per questo alcune amiche di Eliza si convincono che lei possa centrare qualcosa con la sua morte.
Per far fronte alla situazione spiacevole Ellie decide di prendere misure drastiche: sarà lei stessa a risolve il mistero della morte di Eliza.
Non so bene come approcciarmi nel parlare di questo libro. Credo che mi sia piaciuto abbastanza. Sopratutto perchè lo stile è molto fluido e mi ha permesso di leggerlo molto velocemente.
Ma la sensazione che ne ho ricavato alla fine è stata di... incompletezza.
Il mistero della morte di Eliza si è rivelato più che altro il portante del cambiamento di Ellie e non il punto principale del racconto.
Il che ha reso la parte mistery davvero deludente.
Per quanto l'evoluzione del personaggio di Ellie sia molto buona, lei è effettivamente l'unica che si evolve. Questo perchè, nonostante l'autrice cerchi di mandare un messaggio chiaro sulla malattia mentale, il messaggio è arrivato solo a noi lettori, mentre il cast dei personaggi (Ellie e Sam esclusi) ne sono rimasti all'oscuro, rimanendo bloccati a quello che erano all'inizio del libro.
Il libro non mi ha delusa del tutto ma non ha mantenuto le aspettative che mi ero fatta all'inizio. Ne è risultata una lettura piacevole ma che non mi ha lasciato molto.
February 16, 2018
R.I.P. Eliza Hart was unexpected.
Plot: From the synopsis, R.I.P. Eliza Hart sounded like a typical murder mystery that I had come to expect from Young Adult books. This novel was so much more than a murder mystery; it tackled mental health beautifully. It was hard to put R.I.P. Eliza Hart down because Sheinmel revealed just enough information about Eliza and Ellie's relationship to keep me reading and digging deeper. I think everyone should read this book, especially those who don't typically read murder mysteries; R.I.P. Eliza Hart is a book that will stay with you for a long time.
Characters: It's important to note that trauma and mental illnesses are at the forefront of R.I.P Eliza Hart; the mystery behind Eliza's death played second fiddle to Ellie's confronting her claustrophobia triggers and how depression affected others. R.I.P. Eliza Hart was also unique because there were chapters from Eliza's perspective as she recounted how death felt and her relationship with Ellie and those around her.
Worldbuilding: Eliza's boarding school was in sunny California and was just remote enough to feel removed, but the various flashbacks really helped illuminate the California lifestyle.
Short N Sweet: R.I.P Eliza Hart is an important book that I recommend to everyone.
Plot: From the synopsis, R.I.P. Eliza Hart sounded like a typical murder mystery that I had come to expect from Young Adult books. This novel was so much more than a murder mystery; it tackled mental health beautifully. It was hard to put R.I.P. Eliza Hart down because Sheinmel revealed just enough information about Eliza and Ellie's relationship to keep me reading and digging deeper. I think everyone should read this book, especially those who don't typically read murder mysteries; R.I.P. Eliza Hart is a book that will stay with you for a long time.
Characters: It's important to note that trauma and mental illnesses are at the forefront of R.I.P Eliza Hart; the mystery behind Eliza's death played second fiddle to Ellie's confronting her claustrophobia triggers and how depression affected others. R.I.P. Eliza Hart was also unique because there were chapters from Eliza's perspective as she recounted how death felt and her relationship with Ellie and those around her.
Worldbuilding: Eliza's boarding school was in sunny California and was just remote enough to feel removed, but the various flashbacks really helped illuminate the California lifestyle.
Short N Sweet: R.I.P Eliza Hart is an important book that I recommend to everyone.
November 10, 2017
This book was so good. Could relate with the main character since she stuffing alone with mental health. It may be hard for people to understand what’s going on inside someone head. You got to be supportive and understanding and not judge the person who dealing with there own issues. Never be afraid to ask for help when you think you need. In honor of the book coming out soon doing an giveaway on my blog, https://abellafairytale.wordpress.com...
August 8, 2018
This is my 3rd 1 Star review. This book took me 25 weeks and 3 days to read. YA should never take that long to read unless is 5000 pages.
This story is about Ellie and Eliza who were best friend when they were very young girls. After years apart they end up at the same private school in California, where Eliza spreads rumors about Ellie. Later, Eliza is found dead at the bottom of a cliff and Ellie wants to know what happened.
I really wanted to like this book, the summary was right up my alley but I hated the main character, Ellie so much once that happens it's hard for me to care about the book. I can usually get past that if the other characters are worth reading about. Sadly, they were not. I mean Eliza, the dead girl was interesting but even she was on my last nerve and Sam, Ellie's male roommate didn't offer much either. Ellies's whining and claustrophobia was all the book seemed to care about. No real character development; no real confrontations to her tormentors.
This book also had 2 of the worst mothers in books that I have read in a long time. Very unsympathetic characters. Glad to be done with this finally.
This story is about Ellie and Eliza who were best friend when they were very young girls. After years apart they end up at the same private school in California, where Eliza spreads rumors about Ellie. Later, Eliza is found dead at the bottom of a cliff and Ellie wants to know what happened.
I really wanted to like this book, the summary was right up my alley but I hated the main character, Ellie so much once that happens it's hard for me to care about the book. I can usually get past that if the other characters are worth reading about. Sadly, they were not. I mean Eliza, the dead girl was interesting but even she was on my last nerve and Sam, Ellie's male roommate didn't offer much either. Ellies's whining and claustrophobia was all the book seemed to care about. No real character development; no real confrontations to her tormentors.
This book also had 2 of the worst mothers in books that I have read in a long time. Very unsympathetic characters. Glad to be done with this finally.
October 15, 2017
Enjoyed this so much more than I thought I would. Fascinating exploration of mental illness: anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsion, etc. Two young women with nearly identical names were once best friends before one of them moved away. Upon becoming reacquainted, it's clear one has become a "mean girl," and the other an easy target. The mean girl is found dead on a boarding school campus, and authorities can't figure out whether it was suicide, an accident, or foul play. Dual POV between dead Eliza and barely living Ellie is incredibly well done, and Ellie is such an empathetic character. The subtle romance in it
July 15, 2018
I was really intrigued by this one. I didn’t know if I was going to finish it or not but once I started I had to know how Eliza died. Did she jump? Was she pushed, and if so, by who? Was Ellie to blame or was she innocent? Very early on I figured out Ellie had no part in Eliza’s death. I thought Mack had killed her but realized Eliza had a lot more going on than what she let on. I really, really didn’t want to like her because I’ve been on Ellie’s end with mean girls, nothing to this extent though, but I ended up feeling sad for Eliza. I don’t know how anyone gets to the poking where they think they don’t matter. It’s heart breaking and incredible sad. This was a good book and different than what I have been reading lately.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 5, 2019
3,5 stars
I think the reasoning and the idea behind this novel are great and I'm glad that more books talk about mental health in more detail. But I wish Eliza was the main POV character and not Ellie, and for many reasons. Ellie was just really insufferable most of the time and so whiny, and for some time she made me wonder if she actually had problems with her peers because of her non-existent personality. And, overall, Eliza's voice was so much clearer and compelling than hers. I still mostly enjoyed the story though.
I think the reasoning and the idea behind this novel are great and I'm glad that more books talk about mental health in more detail. But I wish Eliza was the main POV character and not Ellie, and for many reasons. Ellie was just really insufferable most of the time and so whiny, and for some time she made me wonder if she actually had problems with her peers because of her non-existent personality. And, overall, Eliza's voice was so much clearer and compelling than hers. I still mostly enjoyed the story though.
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