Sixteen-year-old Olivia Mansfield can’t wait to escape the confines of her home, which promises nothing but perpetual torment and abuse from her stepfather. When poor choices lead her to the brink of a complete breakdown, Olivia comes to a crossroads. Will she find the path to ultimate hope and healing that her heart longs for?

O'Dell's heart for young adults shines through. A story of hope in the midst of pain, poignantly-written with vivid characters facing real-life issues, THE WISHING PEARL is a can't-put-down must-read for teens! --Tosca Lee, author of Demon: A Memoir

O'Dell has penned a gripping novel that will have you turning the pages. The Wishing Pearl is a powerful story of a girl stepping from a shattered life into the light of hope.

--Jenny B. Jones, award-winning author of A Charmed Life series

The writing of this novel is amazing and I felt as though I could connect with Olivia and what she was going through. She has so much life and energy, but was pouring it into all the wrong places. If you enjoy books that discuss tough, but real topics...I seriously suggest picking up this amazing novel!

LillyReader, Lilly Road

I was so totally lost in this story that I just couldn’t stop reading! The characters were so well developed, the story so well written, the ups and downs and twists and turns were phenomenal. The writing was so descriptive that I could picture clearly in my mind’s eye, Diamond Estate perfectly. I was so engrossed in each of the girl’s stories and friendships that I felt like I was living on a cot in the room the four girls shared together. I felt that close to them. Although this was originally written as a young adult novel, it is also great reading for any age. At 368 pages it only took me a few hours to buzz through it because it was that good!!! Be sure to pick up a copy as this is one story you won’t forget.

(Louise Jolly Book Bag Lady 2011-08-02)

Where the novel shines is in its portrayal of thoughts and feelings that seem like they are coming from a real teen. Nicole O'Dell does an exceptional job giving voice to all the feelings of doubt, shame, inadequacy, fear, etc., that a teen -- especially a girl -- can feel. For teens who are faced with tough situations that give rise to hard questions, fear, and discouragement, the novel provides guidance and hope. At one point, Olivia is encouraged to "fight the lies". The explanation that follows this advice, touching on what those lies are, is a terrific lesson that people of all ages can benefit from. Curious? Read the book!

I really enjoyed The Wishing Pearl and would highly recommend it! I look forward to reading the next installment, The Embittered Ruby, when it comes out next April.

(Dawn Creal Read Love 2011-12-06)

The Wishing Pearl portrays real issues teens find themselves facing today, such as substance abuse, eating disorders, and abortion. It manages a realistic approach without graphic scenes or objectionable language. The characters include mostly teen girls with realistic attitudes, taking steps toward healing. It's a good choice for your library, especially for the girls who attend youth group.

(LVO Church Libraries 2012-03-19)

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