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Essence: Young Adult Fantasy
Emma’s parents think she is dead.
It started with a shift in atmosphere. The forest greeted Emma with starting force. At first she couldn’t move her limbs, and then her vision was rendered useless, paralyzed to the forces within the forest. The voices came in a dream at first, commanding her against her will deeper into the forest. After months of fighting for control, it took only one moment to lose her human life forever. Now she is nothing more than an Essence, watching as her life unfolds without her.
In this young adult fantasy about love, loss, and family, Emma must choose between letting go and moving on. Without her, the lives of Emma’s family will forever be changed, but what if she could keep part of her human life, even if she was only an Essence?
What Amazon Reviewers Have to Say:
“A must read for anyone who is looking for something new with a creative fantasy twist.”
“I didn’t know what to expect when I picked up Essence, but what I found was a story that delves into the big questions about life, death, family and what it means to be human. “
“This book gave me new insight on what to appreciate like the simple feeling of crying or rain.”
“I give this 5 stars because I can't give it more than that. This was a truly amazing read.”
It started with a shift in atmosphere. The forest greeted Emma with starting force. At first she couldn’t move her limbs, and then her vision was rendered useless, paralyzed to the forces within the forest. The voices came in a dream at first, commanding her against her will deeper into the forest. After months of fighting for control, it took only one moment to lose her human life forever. Now she is nothing more than an Essence, watching as her life unfolds without her.
In this young adult fantasy about love, loss, and family, Emma must choose between letting go and moving on. Without her, the lives of Emma’s family will forever be changed, but what if she could keep part of her human life, even if she was only an Essence?
What Amazon Reviewers Have to Say:
“A must read for anyone who is looking for something new with a creative fantasy twist.”
“I didn’t know what to expect when I picked up Essence, but what I found was a story that delves into the big questions about life, death, family and what it means to be human. “
“This book gave me new insight on what to appreciate like the simple feeling of crying or rain.”
“I give this 5 stars because I can't give it more than that. This was a truly amazing read.”
337 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2013
19 people are currently reading
946 people want to read
About the author
Mandi Lynn
10 books469 followersMandi Lynn published her first novel when she was seventeen. The author of Essence, I am Mercy and She’s Not Here, Mandi spends her days continuing to write and creating YouTube videos to help other writers achieve their dreams of seeing their books published. Mandi is the owner of Stone Ridge Books, a company that works to help authors bring their books to life through cover design and digital book marketing. She is also the creator of The Book Launch Planner, a planner designed to help guide you through the marketing and publishing process of releasing your book. When she’s not creating, you can find Mandi exploring her backyard or getting lost in the woods.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
January 31, 2020
Essence is a young adult fantasy about love, loss, and family where Emma must choose between letting go and moving on.
Watch the book trailer: http://bit.ly/2l0Nsbx
Start Reading: https://amzn.to/2Rmv6CS
Visit Mandi Lynn online: www.mandilynn.com
December 28, 2014
I just couldn't finish this book. The main character's expectations where just too un-realistic and it was just boring me.
August 6, 2016
*I was sent an ARC of this book by the author to review here as well as on my YouTube channel (link below).
Essence by Mandi Lynn is a YA paranormal novel, set primarily in the White Mountains National Forest, New Hampshire, but that’s not where the novel’s protagonist would like to be. Amelia Clarice Barton, who goes by the nickname Emma, prefers the warmth and sunshine of Florida to the rainy wilderness of NH. But not only because of the weather—strange things have been happening to Emma since her family moved to New Hampshire, miles away from their nearest neighbors and right next to a national park. Emma feels drawn to something in the forest, but not with a feeling of longing, but rather, she physically loses control of her body and senses, hears voices in her head, and finds herself traveling against her will deep into the forest. Too afraid to tell anyone what’s happening, Emma keeps it from her parents. But when she begins her new school and encounters a strange girl named Eliza, things only continue down this path of oddity, as something distant yet familiar beckons Emma to the forest, something that will change her existence forever.
The intro of the novel introduces the paranormal element to the reader right away, and leaves him or her curious as to where this happening will lead. The book takes a step back from this, though, as it follows the family’s move to a new place and Emma’s adjustment to a new school with new friends and an odd stranger named Eliza whose gaze makes her feel uncomfortable—rather reminiscent of the opening chapters of Stephanie Meyers’ Twilight.
Things change pace, however, when Eliza’s life becomes connected to Emma’s struggles with being drawn into the world. The two become friends in an unfortunate event and their shared misfortune.
Essence does several things right, from the strong intro, the exploration of relationships between characters (the one between mother and daughter being the most poignant), an interesting cast of supporting characters, and a satisfying conclusion. There were several memorable scenes with excellent description and thought-provoking musings from characters who’d been through interesting and unfortunate circumstances, and the emotion explored through these kinds of scenes were genuine and touching.
The first narrator suffers from a bit of over-knowledgeable syndrome, speaking a few times from a place of authority more fitting to a third-person omniscient narrator, but regarding the feelings and motives of other characters rather than overarching plot twists (which is what Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games did wrong; the kind of over-knowledgeable narrator in Essence is easier to overlook).
There was some over-writing and wordy descriptions that could have been edited out or cleaned up. While much of the explanation of the paranormal elements was interesting, some of it seemed to be a little too conveniently explained. The middle of the novel was a lot of meandering around minor plot elements, and as a reader I found myself wondering where the novel was going, and if it was going any set place at all. It did come together in the end, though, and the conclusion of the novel left me smiling.
Video review here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LEIbNT...
Essence by Mandi Lynn is a YA paranormal novel, set primarily in the White Mountains National Forest, New Hampshire, but that’s not where the novel’s protagonist would like to be. Amelia Clarice Barton, who goes by the nickname Emma, prefers the warmth and sunshine of Florida to the rainy wilderness of NH. But not only because of the weather—strange things have been happening to Emma since her family moved to New Hampshire, miles away from their nearest neighbors and right next to a national park. Emma feels drawn to something in the forest, but not with a feeling of longing, but rather, she physically loses control of her body and senses, hears voices in her head, and finds herself traveling against her will deep into the forest. Too afraid to tell anyone what’s happening, Emma keeps it from her parents. But when she begins her new school and encounters a strange girl named Eliza, things only continue down this path of oddity, as something distant yet familiar beckons Emma to the forest, something that will change her existence forever.
The intro of the novel introduces the paranormal element to the reader right away, and leaves him or her curious as to where this happening will lead. The book takes a step back from this, though, as it follows the family’s move to a new place and Emma’s adjustment to a new school with new friends and an odd stranger named Eliza whose gaze makes her feel uncomfortable—rather reminiscent of the opening chapters of Stephanie Meyers’ Twilight.
Things change pace, however, when Eliza’s life becomes connected to Emma’s struggles with being drawn into the world. The two become friends in an unfortunate event and their shared misfortune.
Essence does several things right, from the strong intro, the exploration of relationships between characters (the one between mother and daughter being the most poignant), an interesting cast of supporting characters, and a satisfying conclusion. There were several memorable scenes with excellent description and thought-provoking musings from characters who’d been through interesting and unfortunate circumstances, and the emotion explored through these kinds of scenes were genuine and touching.
The first narrator suffers from a bit of over-knowledgeable syndrome, speaking a few times from a place of authority more fitting to a third-person omniscient narrator, but regarding the feelings and motives of other characters rather than overarching plot twists (which is what Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games did wrong; the kind of over-knowledgeable narrator in Essence is easier to overlook).
There was some over-writing and wordy descriptions that could have been edited out or cleaned up. While much of the explanation of the paranormal elements was interesting, some of it seemed to be a little too conveniently explained. The middle of the novel was a lot of meandering around minor plot elements, and as a reader I found myself wondering where the novel was going, and if it was going any set place at all. It did come together in the end, though, and the conclusion of the novel left me smiling.
Video review here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LEIbNT...
July 30, 2014
(*SPOILERS BELOW* )
I have been an avid follower of Mandi Lynn for quite a while now. Stumbling upon her insightful videos on Youtube I quickly subscribed, tuned in weekly - and set up a routine of occasional Mandi Marathons. In short, I am a fan and a supporter. This girl is insanely inspiring. With that said, I have to say that I immediately purchased Essence upon the release date and ordered it. There are pictures of if on my Instagram after it came in the mail. I showed it off to friends and family alike - as I was so freakin' proud of this girl achieving success in self publication.
However - my schedule just never granted me the time to really read the book. Shameful as it is, I just never got around to it. I didn't really know what Essence was about until I held the book in my hands - and even then it held no great appeal to me aside from it being the final polished product of someone I've come to admire.
More recently however, I've discovered the time to delve back into reading and writing. I just finished this book and I must say that Essence brought me to tears. Not once, not twice - but several times. I am not an easily swayed emotional kind of gal. For me, something about the storyline really resonated with me. Perhaps it's because (*SPOILER ALERT*) ..... I have lost my own Father and fear the loss of my Mother. The book started off a little slow for my liking. I felt that at times the story was over done with flowery and frilly words. Long going sentences could have been simplified and shortened up no problem. But that's just a personal preference. I felt the Eliza character was cheated in life and her ultimate existence. I was hoping she'd achieve closure - but oh well! Life goes on. :)
Luna is a very fascinating character. But the story is about Emma.
It was a light an easy read -- for me, I am a fast reader so I read it front to back in one evening. What impressed me and captivated me the most about Essence was the originality of the story. Truthfully, I wasn't too sure what I was getting myself into when I opened the book, but the anniversary of this book's release is - I believe this week. Maybe it's already happened... Whatever the case, I read the book and I'm glad that I did. Mandi gives readers a genuine taste of something new and refreshing. I didn't stumble upon any cliched scenarios that made me roll my eyes and grumble. In fact I would pause from time to time to really soak in and admire her approach. What was her muse for this? As a fan I'm well aware that Phantom Lagoon spawns from a beautiful place at Sabbaday Falls - but really now the concept of this story just struck me.
Good job Mandi!
... and the end... it destroyed me. I was in absolute tears. I wasn't prepared for that emotional knee jerk - but I got it, and it smarts! lol
So, if you are in the mood to read something fresh, innovative and thought provoking - Essence is for you.
Cheers!
-Spencer <3
I have been an avid follower of Mandi Lynn for quite a while now. Stumbling upon her insightful videos on Youtube I quickly subscribed, tuned in weekly - and set up a routine of occasional Mandi Marathons. In short, I am a fan and a supporter. This girl is insanely inspiring. With that said, I have to say that I immediately purchased Essence upon the release date and ordered it. There are pictures of if on my Instagram after it came in the mail. I showed it off to friends and family alike - as I was so freakin' proud of this girl achieving success in self publication.
However - my schedule just never granted me the time to really read the book. Shameful as it is, I just never got around to it. I didn't really know what Essence was about until I held the book in my hands - and even then it held no great appeal to me aside from it being the final polished product of someone I've come to admire.
More recently however, I've discovered the time to delve back into reading and writing. I just finished this book and I must say that Essence brought me to tears. Not once, not twice - but several times. I am not an easily swayed emotional kind of gal. For me, something about the storyline really resonated with me. Perhaps it's because (*SPOILER ALERT*) ..... I have lost my own Father and fear the loss of my Mother. The book started off a little slow for my liking. I felt that at times the story was over done with flowery and frilly words. Long going sentences could have been simplified and shortened up no problem. But that's just a personal preference. I felt the Eliza character was cheated in life and her ultimate existence. I was hoping she'd achieve closure - but oh well! Life goes on. :)
Luna is a very fascinating character. But the story is about Emma.
It was a light an easy read -- for me, I am a fast reader so I read it front to back in one evening. What impressed me and captivated me the most about Essence was the originality of the story. Truthfully, I wasn't too sure what I was getting myself into when I opened the book, but the anniversary of this book's release is - I believe this week. Maybe it's already happened... Whatever the case, I read the book and I'm glad that I did. Mandi gives readers a genuine taste of something new and refreshing. I didn't stumble upon any cliched scenarios that made me roll my eyes and grumble. In fact I would pause from time to time to really soak in and admire her approach. What was her muse for this? As a fan I'm well aware that Phantom Lagoon spawns from a beautiful place at Sabbaday Falls - but really now the concept of this story just struck me.
Good job Mandi!
... and the end... it destroyed me. I was in absolute tears. I wasn't prepared for that emotional knee jerk - but I got it, and it smarts! lol
So, if you are in the mood to read something fresh, innovative and thought provoking - Essence is for you.
Cheers!
-Spencer <3
September 27, 2013
This is my first book review here and I must say I'm glad to be reviewing Essence by Mandi Lynn who is also a fellow book tuber who I discovered earlier this year while looking for video's on how to improve my writing and getting enough guts to write a book, but enough about that, lets begin.
So when I first ordered this book I got excited, I was amazed at how Mandi managed to self publish this book she'd been working on for a few years and she finally did it. When the book finally landed at my door step I was ready to read.
I never use to read the prologue in books before, but I 'm glad I did, because that is a very important part of the story, then chapter one comes and she is a fifteen year old girl who has moved with her parents from sunny Florida to the White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire. She starts a new school, makes some friends and then she sees a girl who just stares at her ( Eliza )
When Emma goes for a walk into the forest, her body gets taken over by some force, and she goes to where it pulls her, she sees a purple mist and follows it, then she hears a voice telling her to go back.
She tries to run but she can't. But finally she does and as soon as she makes it home she is able to breathe again and she feels much better. But it happens again and this time she can't hold back, and thats where she comes to Phantom Lagoon and now she is an Essence which is someone who is not dead, nor alive or even in heaven or an angel. She made a mistake, but she sees Eliza there and they become friends and Eliza looks after Emma and helps her, Emma wants to see her parents but has to be careful, as she does this her mother can see her, but everyone else thinks she is crazy, but Emma secretly goes to her mother and they both keep it a secret and Emma visits her mother everyday until another tragedy happens with her father, eventually he gets really sick and passes away, then her mother just forgets about Emma, but Emma stills looks over her.
Emma wants to be with her family, she knows she can'y got up to heaven to be with her father as she is an Essence and they are stuck on earth, some have powers, Eliza can be human.
At some point in the book she meets a clown performing on the streets on a rainy day, and I must say that it's my fav chapter of the book by fav, but when I first read that part I thought to myself " what is the point of this part ? " as I did with some other chapters but, as you read further it all connects, and thats what I liked about it.
It was a nice change from YA novels about boy meets girl, girl falls for boy, but boy isn't want girl thinks boy is and become enemies but end up together in the end.
This book was different and I like different.
So thanks to Mandi Lynn for and an extraordinary story, it makes me think how lucky being human really is.
So when I first ordered this book I got excited, I was amazed at how Mandi managed to self publish this book she'd been working on for a few years and she finally did it. When the book finally landed at my door step I was ready to read.
I never use to read the prologue in books before, but I 'm glad I did, because that is a very important part of the story, then chapter one comes and she is a fifteen year old girl who has moved with her parents from sunny Florida to the White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire. She starts a new school, makes some friends and then she sees a girl who just stares at her ( Eliza )
When Emma goes for a walk into the forest, her body gets taken over by some force, and she goes to where it pulls her, she sees a purple mist and follows it, then she hears a voice telling her to go back.
She tries to run but she can't. But finally she does and as soon as she makes it home she is able to breathe again and she feels much better. But it happens again and this time she can't hold back, and thats where she comes to Phantom Lagoon and now she is an Essence which is someone who is not dead, nor alive or even in heaven or an angel. She made a mistake, but she sees Eliza there and they become friends and Eliza looks after Emma and helps her, Emma wants to see her parents but has to be careful, as she does this her mother can see her, but everyone else thinks she is crazy, but Emma secretly goes to her mother and they both keep it a secret and Emma visits her mother everyday until another tragedy happens with her father, eventually he gets really sick and passes away, then her mother just forgets about Emma, but Emma stills looks over her.
Emma wants to be with her family, she knows she can'y got up to heaven to be with her father as she is an Essence and they are stuck on earth, some have powers, Eliza can be human.
At some point in the book she meets a clown performing on the streets on a rainy day, and I must say that it's my fav chapter of the book by fav, but when I first read that part I thought to myself " what is the point of this part ? " as I did with some other chapters but, as you read further it all connects, and thats what I liked about it.
It was a nice change from YA novels about boy meets girl, girl falls for boy, but boy isn't want girl thinks boy is and become enemies but end up together in the end.
This book was different and I like different.
So thanks to Mandi Lynn for and an extraordinary story, it makes me think how lucky being human really is.
Read
December 31, 2015DNF at 90-something pages. The narrative is very stiff and unfeeling, and not a lot of it even makes much sense.
February 7, 2015
[Review also in english]
Essence é o primeiro livro escrito por Mandi Lynn, uma jovem autora que tem ainda muito para crescer.
A autora apresenta-nos então um romance paranormal onde Emma é a personagem central. É após uma estranha série de eventos que a levam a um lago que tudo na sua vida muda.
Não conhecia a autora antes do meu regresso ao twitter e de começar a interagir com booktubers de outros países. Quando li a sinopse do livro confesso que fiquei curiosa e decidi arriscar.
É uma leitura agradável e rápida de se fazer. Apesar de nova, Mandi consegue facilmente levar o leitor a ficar interessado pelo mistério em redor daquela floresta e do lago. A minha maior crítica vai para o final da história. Quando no início deste post menciono que a autora tem ainda muito para crescer, isto deve-se apenas à necessidade que ela tem de dar uma resposta fechada quando neste caso a história beneficiaria de um final aberto, deixando aos leitores espaço para imaginar um pouco mais além.
Acredito que, com tempo, a autora conseguirá dar uma nova vida a este livro e espero ler mais dela em breve.
***
Essence is the first book written by Mandi Lynn, a young author who still has much to grow.
The author presents us with a paranormal romance where Emma is the main character. It is after a strange series of events that lead to a lake and its then that everything changes.
I didn't know the author before my return to twitter and starting to interact with booktubers from other countries. When I read the synopsis of the book I became curious and decided to take a risk.
It is a nice and fast reading to do. Although new, Mandi, can easily get the reader to be interested in the mystery around that forest and lake. My biggest criticism goes to the end of the story. When at the beginning of this post I mention that the author has much to grow, this is due only to the need she has to give a closed response when, in this case, the story would benefit from an open ending, leaving space for the readers to imagine more.
I believe that in time, the author will be able to give a new life to this book and I hope read more of her soon.
in: http://folhaembranco.blogs.sapo.pt/es...
Essence é o primeiro livro escrito por Mandi Lynn, uma jovem autora que tem ainda muito para crescer.
A autora apresenta-nos então um romance paranormal onde Emma é a personagem central. É após uma estranha série de eventos que a levam a um lago que tudo na sua vida muda.
Não conhecia a autora antes do meu regresso ao twitter e de começar a interagir com booktubers de outros países. Quando li a sinopse do livro confesso que fiquei curiosa e decidi arriscar.
É uma leitura agradável e rápida de se fazer. Apesar de nova, Mandi consegue facilmente levar o leitor a ficar interessado pelo mistério em redor daquela floresta e do lago. A minha maior crítica vai para o final da história. Quando no início deste post menciono que a autora tem ainda muito para crescer, isto deve-se apenas à necessidade que ela tem de dar uma resposta fechada quando neste caso a história beneficiaria de um final aberto, deixando aos leitores espaço para imaginar um pouco mais além.
Acredito que, com tempo, a autora conseguirá dar uma nova vida a este livro e espero ler mais dela em breve.
***
Essence is the first book written by Mandi Lynn, a young author who still has much to grow.
The author presents us with a paranormal romance where Emma is the main character. It is after a strange series of events that lead to a lake and its then that everything changes.
I didn't know the author before my return to twitter and starting to interact with booktubers from other countries. When I read the synopsis of the book I became curious and decided to take a risk.
It is a nice and fast reading to do. Although new, Mandi, can easily get the reader to be interested in the mystery around that forest and lake. My biggest criticism goes to the end of the story. When at the beginning of this post I mention that the author has much to grow, this is due only to the need she has to give a closed response when, in this case, the story would benefit from an open ending, leaving space for the readers to imagine more.
I believe that in time, the author will be able to give a new life to this book and I hope read more of her soon.
in: http://folhaembranco.blogs.sapo.pt/es...
June 28, 2016
Holy crap! This book was amazing!
I've watched Mandi Lynn on her channel and she has been inspiring. I've always wanted to read her book 'Essence' ever since I found out about it because it sounded soo Interesting and unusual. I had finally managed to my hands on a book and read it straight away and I'm so glad I did!
This book truly was beautiful to my eyes, I loved the main character 'Emma' and the story line was so unique and brand new. I can see how much effort and time she has put into writing this book and as a writer myself I can truly understand how important our stories are to us. There are so many paragraphs in the story that truly spoke out to me.
Of course, like everything in life, there were a few flaws I found in the book. I did feel that the world building felt a little rushed, but considering that this is a first novel we can all learn how to improve in our writing. But, I've rated this book five stars just because I truly feel like it deserves it. Mandi has created a stunning book and I'm surprised that this isn't traditionally published! It should be as this book knocks spots from books that are traditionally published (in my opinion, anyways:D ) Well done Mandi, Keep up the good and inspiring work. I wish you the best of luck in your writing career.
:)
I've watched Mandi Lynn on her channel and she has been inspiring. I've always wanted to read her book 'Essence' ever since I found out about it because it sounded soo Interesting and unusual. I had finally managed to my hands on a book and read it straight away and I'm so glad I did!
This book truly was beautiful to my eyes, I loved the main character 'Emma' and the story line was so unique and brand new. I can see how much effort and time she has put into writing this book and as a writer myself I can truly understand how important our stories are to us. There are so many paragraphs in the story that truly spoke out to me.
Of course, like everything in life, there were a few flaws I found in the book. I did feel that the world building felt a little rushed, but considering that this is a first novel we can all learn how to improve in our writing. But, I've rated this book five stars just because I truly feel like it deserves it. Mandi has created a stunning book and I'm surprised that this isn't traditionally published! It should be as this book knocks spots from books that are traditionally published (in my opinion, anyways:D ) Well done Mandi, Keep up the good and inspiring work. I wish you the best of luck in your writing career.
:)
March 11, 2015
Essence was (in my opinion) the most original novel i have yet read, in many ways the plot was so refreshingly new and not at all like the typical 'romantic-relationship-based' concepts that most YA novels have these days.
The beginning of this book was fantastic and immediately pulled me right into the story. The ending was equally as mesmerising. However, i felt the middle of the novel was quite slow and uninformative about the character's situation.
I also thought that while some characters (e.g. Eliza) had well thought out and executed backstories, there were other characters whose backstories were not really told (e.g. Luna/Harvi) and because of this i feel that these characters were left as 'loose ends' that were never 'tied'.
Overall the writing and description in this novel was beautiful and had me imagining myself looking at the gorgeous landscapes.
Therefore i would recommend this book for an original read and i would like to read Lynn's next book 'I am Mercy'.
The beginning of this book was fantastic and immediately pulled me right into the story. The ending was equally as mesmerising. However, i felt the middle of the novel was quite slow and uninformative about the character's situation.
I also thought that while some characters (e.g. Eliza) had well thought out and executed backstories, there were other characters whose backstories were not really told (e.g. Luna/Harvi) and because of this i feel that these characters were left as 'loose ends' that were never 'tied'.
Overall the writing and description in this novel was beautiful and had me imagining myself looking at the gorgeous landscapes.
Therefore i would recommend this book for an original read and i would like to read Lynn's next book 'I am Mercy'.
August 8, 2017
So it has been awhile since I have had the time to actually read a book, and I am so glad this was the one I started reading. This book was so good that I read this book in under 5 hours front to back. It is not like the normal paranormal romance novels that I am used to but it is a very nice change of pace. If you are sick of the vampire, werewolves, witches novels than this is the one for you. I had a hard time in the beginning understanding what was going on to the main character Emma, but once the reasons she was acting possessed like was explained I thought it was so creative. This book can bring you to tears a few times, but it is definitely worth the read. I am glad Emma did find a happy ending in the end.
January 15, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Essence. The story is original, has unique concepts, and I loved that it was written in first person, present tense. Mandi's writing gave beautiful imagery to the reader, and it kept me engaged because I was intrigued to see where the story would lead. I can honestly say this is a one of a kind book, and there isn't another story I've read like it.
Considering this was Mandi's first book, it's well put together. There is a subplot involving another character, which I also enjoyed. My constructive criticism would be that I wished there was more of a plot, but then again, considering the nature of this book, it would be difficult to have one.
Considering this was Mandi's first book, it's well put together. There is a subplot involving another character, which I also enjoyed. My constructive criticism would be that I wished there was more of a plot, but then again, considering the nature of this book, it would be difficult to have one.
October 7, 2015
If you love reading one of those books about discovering the values of life, then this is the definitely the book for you. I thought this was a pretty depressing
plot throughout and had a slow pace in the beginning, but the ending made up for it overall because it really summed up all of my unanswered questions.
'Can't wait for Mandi's newest book! I hope its a little more lighthearted!
Very eloquent, descriptive writing considering, Mandi wrote this at a young age.
#MandiLynn #Essence
plot throughout and had a slow pace in the beginning, but the ending made up for it overall because it really summed up all of my unanswered questions.
'Can't wait for Mandi's newest book! I hope its a little more lighthearted!
Very eloquent, descriptive writing considering, Mandi wrote this at a young age.
#MandiLynn #Essence
December 4, 2015
Its pretty good. Its tough to follow at first but if you hang in there the beginning of storie will make sense. This is Mandi Lynn Strzelewicz first book. I never thought to view death and afterlife the way she portrayed in this story. I hope others read this story and maybe pick up another view point about our meaning in life or i should say after life.
Read
March 4, 2017This book was so amazing! I watch Mandi Lynn's youtube channel and decided to pick up Essence. I was hooked from the first page to the end. Not a lot of books can make me cry, but this one was able to! Definitely going to re-read ten times and force my friends to read it too. My favorite character was Kenzie :)
January 8, 2018
Essence was enthralling and had me hooked right to the very end. A beautifully written work of art. The imagery used in the story really helps to create a perfect scene in your head and knowing how much work Mandi put into this was amazing. I am a huge fan.
July 12, 2013
3.5 stars
Review coming soon :)
Review coming soon :)
July 30, 2013
A video review can be found here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSbZGB...
May 11, 2015
I loved this book, beautifully written and emotional. Highly recommended.
January 23, 2019
I was not able to read this review. I didn't like the way the story was told. I also wasn't a huge fan of the cover. The cover definitely needed some more work.
February 25, 2019
3.5/5
Essence is a heart-breaking and heart-mending story of Emma, a girl who was separated from half her soul at birth. After moving from her home in Florida, she becomes increasingly drawn to the forest by her new home, where she finds a mysterious lagoon that draws her into a bitter-sweet situation: Emma's body is dead, but her spirit lives on.
As Emma watches her family and friends go through life without her, I found myself falling deeper and deeper into the heart of her situation. At times, the story seemed to move a bit slowly, and the philosophical commentary became a little heavy sometimes. However, the slower pacing fits well with Emma's quiet contemplation as she struggles to come to terms with her own death.
The description is on point, the characters are likable, and the ending - oh, that ending is beautiful. The slow pace and quiet lack of action isn't the style of book that I usually enjoy, but it truly works for this story, and it's obvious how much thought was put into this.
Essence is a heart-breaking and heart-mending story of Emma, a girl who was separated from half her soul at birth. After moving from her home in Florida, she becomes increasingly drawn to the forest by her new home, where she finds a mysterious lagoon that draws her into a bitter-sweet situation: Emma's body is dead, but her spirit lives on.
As Emma watches her family and friends go through life without her, I found myself falling deeper and deeper into the heart of her situation. At times, the story seemed to move a bit slowly, and the philosophical commentary became a little heavy sometimes. However, the slower pacing fits well with Emma's quiet contemplation as she struggles to come to terms with her own death.
The description is on point, the characters are likable, and the ending - oh, that ending is beautiful. The slow pace and quiet lack of action isn't the style of book that I usually enjoy, but it truly works for this story, and it's obvious how much thought was put into this.
April 4, 2024
This book I got it during bookcon 2019. I met the author and everything. She signed it and only now am I finishing.
It was an interesting read, either the concept of death, life and the complexity of grief. The pacing made sense at certain points but others I was lost. Having lost a family member that I wasn’t really close to and seeing my mom grieve was close to home. You got to meet interesting characters each with their own backstory and how it comes to end. Though as someone who has religious trauma I didn’t really care for the heaven bits and god. But that’s not why it wasn’t a five star read. It’s just not my kind of thing but I did enjoy it. So yeah glad it’s done.
It was an interesting read, either the concept of death, life and the complexity of grief. The pacing made sense at certain points but others I was lost. Having lost a family member that I wasn’t really close to and seeing my mom grieve was close to home. You got to meet interesting characters each with their own backstory and how it comes to end. Though as someone who has religious trauma I didn’t really care for the heaven bits and god. But that’s not why it wasn’t a five star read. It’s just not my kind of thing but I did enjoy it. So yeah glad it’s done.
July 30, 2019
What I Liked:
-The scene with the deer was great.
-The relationships are well written and relatable.
-This is a great variation on a ghost story. It’s an interesting look at what could happen after life.
Who Should Read It:
-Readers who like ghost stories without horror.
-Readers who like to connect with a character and read beautiful descriptions.
For Full Review (including what I didn’t love): https://youtu.be/qALNpWwvkZg (45:36)
-The scene with the deer was great.
-The relationships are well written and relatable.
-This is a great variation on a ghost story. It’s an interesting look at what could happen after life.
Who Should Read It:
-Readers who like ghost stories without horror.
-Readers who like to connect with a character and read beautiful descriptions.
For Full Review (including what I didn’t love): https://youtu.be/qALNpWwvkZg (45:36)
March 9, 2021
I could not get myself to read the entire thing, but it was really sloppy written, with way to flowery language, to much descriptions of boring stuff, and should have gotten read through by an editor. I know the author was really young writing this, but it is still up and people can still use money on it.
June 6, 2021
Essence is a gripping story of love, loss, and enjoying the fleeting, beautiful moments of life while we can. This beautifully written story had me reaching for the tissues as I wept. This is one I'll return to many times in the future.
January 17, 2019
Emotional, thought provoking, spiritual.
I’m glad I read it.
I’m glad I read it.
April 5, 2019
It wasn't my favorite writing style, but the storyline was intriguing.
April 18, 2023
I was hooked throughout the entire book! Very engaging. It's hard to believe that the author was young when she wrote it.
November 16, 2018
I didn’t know what to expect when I picked up Essence, but what I found was a story that delves into the big questions about life, death, family and what it means to be human. All of it done in a way that’s relatable for the average teen or adult to grasp without being preachy. I was stirred emotionally throughout thanks to the vivid prose and engaging characters and relationships. Though in many cases, said relationships end up heartbreaking.
Essence follows Emma, who finds herself on an unexpected journey after moving to New Hampshire. The supernatural elements come into play right at the beginning and play well into the themes of the book. It’s a bit slow to start after the prologue, but after the plot kicks in, it’s very hard to put down, especially after the halfway mark. And don’t get me started on the ending.
It’s clear that Mandi Lynn has poured her heart into writing her debut novel and it has paid off, and I look forward to reading more of her books in the future.
Essence follows Emma, who finds herself on an unexpected journey after moving to New Hampshire. The supernatural elements come into play right at the beginning and play well into the themes of the book. It’s a bit slow to start after the prologue, but after the plot kicks in, it’s very hard to put down, especially after the halfway mark. And don’t get me started on the ending.
It’s clear that Mandi Lynn has poured her heart into writing her debut novel and it has paid off, and I look forward to reading more of her books in the future.
October 31, 2017
I started reading this book the day I got it (Christmas day) and oh my god did I love this book?!?
At no point did I get bored. The author Mandi gets into the story so quickly and that's what I like. She doesn't drag it out like most authors do.
At first I didn't think it was my type of book but I will definitely be reading the prequel (I am Mercy) soon!!
I think the storyline is very original and i could really imagine the story as if this was a film. I am shocked that this novel wasn’t professionally published as it was amazing and I wouldn’t see why others wouldn’t pick it up.
For an independent author, i think the edits were professional and along does the front and back cover, it’s smart and tells the reader clearly what the story is about just by looking at it.
I can’t wait to read I Am Mercy and I will definitely be re-reading this!
At no point did I get bored. The author Mandi gets into the story so quickly and that's what I like. She doesn't drag it out like most authors do.
At first I didn't think it was my type of book but I will definitely be reading the prequel (I am Mercy) soon!!
I think the storyline is very original and i could really imagine the story as if this was a film. I am shocked that this novel wasn’t professionally published as it was amazing and I wouldn’t see why others wouldn’t pick it up.
For an independent author, i think the edits were professional and along does the front and back cover, it’s smart and tells the reader clearly what the story is about just by looking at it.
I can’t wait to read I Am Mercy and I will definitely be re-reading this!
December 3, 2014
I bought this book because I have gotten a lot of value from watching the authors youtube channel, which documents the young authors progress to write and publish her first novel.
Her writing style seems perfectly fine to me, but where this book left me bored was the need for conflict. I often would finish a chapter and have no urge to read the next. Through much of the middle I got lost because there didn't seem to be a clearly defined goal.
That's not to say I didn't like the idea. I was fascinated with that, it's only too bad the group she was with was so uninteresting.
I do suspect Mandi will write more and greater books because the dedication I witnessed on her channel is inspiring.
Her writing style seems perfectly fine to me, but where this book left me bored was the need for conflict. I often would finish a chapter and have no urge to read the next. Through much of the middle I got lost because there didn't seem to be a clearly defined goal.
That's not to say I didn't like the idea. I was fascinated with that, it's only too bad the group she was with was so uninteresting.
I do suspect Mandi will write more and greater books because the dedication I witnessed on her channel is inspiring.
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