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The Promise
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What does it mean to be a human?
Lily Larkin is about to find out. On what should have been a day of great happiness she is diagnosed with a rare and unbelievable disease: she is shrinking, possibly without limit.
As her life starts to spin out of control and the world starts to grow around her at an uncontrollable rate she is forced to confront her greatest fear - losing the man whom she loved from the moment she saw him. Can they stay together even though she feels her humanity slipping away? Can she trust him with her secret and - as her disease progresses - her safety and even her life? Can she trust herself?
A bittersweet story of love and loss, The Promise is a YA Paranormal Fantasy that will have you questioning the meaning of your own humanity and the weighing of trust against love.
What will Lily choose?
What would you choose?
What does it mean to be a human?
Lily Larkin is about to find out. On what should have been a day of great happiness she is diagnosed with a rare and unbelievable disease: she is shrinking, possibly without limit.
As her life starts to spin out of control and the world starts to grow around her at an uncontrollable rate she is forced to confront her greatest fear - losing the man whom she loved from the moment she saw him. Can they stay together even though she feels her humanity slipping away? Can she trust him with her secret and - as her disease progresses - her safety and even her life? Can she trust herself?
A bittersweet story of love and loss, The Promise is a YA Paranormal Fantasy that will have you questioning the meaning of your own humanity and the weighing of trust against love.
What will Lily choose?
What would you choose?
204 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2013
9 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
About the author
C.E. Wilson
21 books576 followersC.E. Wilson was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, grew up in Millersville, Pennsylvania, and has been living in Pittsburgh since 2009. For the first few years living in Pittsburgh, she was an English teacher. Her first book, "Oath of Servitude," was published in 2012. In 2013, she quit teaching to be a full time author and hasn't looked back since. She loves spending time with her daughter and husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
July 19, 2016
This is the most beautiful, most tragic story that brought me to tears over and over again. Once I started reading this tale of Lily and her shrinking situation, I just couldn't stop. Sometimes loving someone just isn't enough and though letting them go is painful, it can be for the best. It's a hard lesson to learn for Erik and Lily but one that leads to happiness later on.
September 15, 2013
“That’s my heart,” Erik replied. “I want you to remember it. My heart beats for you Lily, and no matter what happens…it always will.”
*Thank You to the author C.E. Wilson for giving me this book to read and review*
As the summary says, this book really does make you think about your humanity. The Promise is the story about Lily and Erik. Lily was almost 6 feet tall. She 'd been living a pretty decent live despite her rough upbringing seeing that her mother left her at the orphanage at the age of 11. Now Lily is married to the most amazing guy named Erik, and everything is perfect. Until one day she discovers that she is shrinking. Literally. It's the little things at first like loose clothes or shoes which wont fit her anymore etc and then before she knows it she's down to 4 feet. Lily is devastated. How can she stop this? Or can this even be stopped before she has shrunken into nothing?
The Promise is such an unusual and unique story,that will hook the readers throughout the book. I was rushing through the pages to know what's gonna happen next! Most of the stories are retold over and over, but trust me when I say The Promise is not one of them.
The character depth of Lily & Erik was spectacular. Lily is definitely not your average romantic lead. She is as real as you can get. She has made her share of mistakes in life that she has to live with, and has emerged to be a strong person. However,she also proved to be loving and kind. Erik on the other hand is a character you'll without a doubt fall in love with.
The romance in The Promise is sweet and really heart-wrenching because of what these two have to go through. The way that Lily and Erik stay together through a tested relationship is really remarkable, and both of them show a strength that is really admirable within characters.
The conclusion of The Promise gives us a message of living life but moving on, and keeping memories to treasure instead of ending them in a negative way. Being able to look back at what happened at smile, living life to the fullest regardless of the situation that one is placed in.
Overall, The Promise is a great read and should be read by all regardless of age.
*Thank You to the author C.E. Wilson for giving me this book to read and review*
As the summary says, this book really does make you think about your humanity. The Promise is the story about Lily and Erik. Lily was almost 6 feet tall. She 'd been living a pretty decent live despite her rough upbringing seeing that her mother left her at the orphanage at the age of 11. Now Lily is married to the most amazing guy named Erik, and everything is perfect. Until one day she discovers that she is shrinking. Literally. It's the little things at first like loose clothes or shoes which wont fit her anymore etc and then before she knows it she's down to 4 feet. Lily is devastated. How can she stop this? Or can this even be stopped before she has shrunken into nothing?
The Promise is such an unusual and unique story,that will hook the readers throughout the book. I was rushing through the pages to know what's gonna happen next! Most of the stories are retold over and over, but trust me when I say The Promise is not one of them.
The character depth of Lily & Erik was spectacular. Lily is definitely not your average romantic lead. She is as real as you can get. She has made her share of mistakes in life that she has to live with, and has emerged to be a strong person. However,she also proved to be loving and kind. Erik on the other hand is a character you'll without a doubt fall in love with.
The romance in The Promise is sweet and really heart-wrenching because of what these two have to go through. The way that Lily and Erik stay together through a tested relationship is really remarkable, and both of them show a strength that is really admirable within characters.
The conclusion of The Promise gives us a message of living life but moving on, and keeping memories to treasure instead of ending them in a negative way. Being able to look back at what happened at smile, living life to the fullest regardless of the situation that one is placed in.
Overall, The Promise is a great read and should be read by all regardless of age.
September 2, 2013
This took me a lot longer to finish then I inteded, but I couldn't get as much into the story as I liked.
Lilly is a tough girl complete with tatoo's and dreadlocks. She's married to a wonderful man named Eric, who loves her so very much, despite her rough exterior and stubborness.
Lily who stands at about six feet tall, realizes one day that she is shrinking. At first she tries to hide it from Eric, but he eventually notices. They are flabergasted that Lilly is getting shorter and it doesn't seem to be stopping. Eric's best friend Mark researches that there could be others like Lilly out there, those that have shrunk down to about six inches, and can no longer live amongst normal humans.
Eric is adiment about trying to live a normal life with his wife, despite the fact taht she is getting smaller and smaller every day. While Lilly doesn't want to get help from anyone and tries to do everything on her own despite being three feet tall.
I didn't like Lily as much as I wanted to. I found her to be way to stubborn. She should have just accepted Eric's, seen that she couldn't handle this problem on her own. Especially since Eric was so loving, caring, patient, and wanted nothing more then to see his wife happy. He wanted to help her, to show her that she wasn't alone, but Lily had a hard time getting that through her head. She seemed to think she was a burden to Eric, even though he told her he wasn't. Silly stubborn girl.
At the 75% mark the book really started to pick up, and I loved it. We know that Lilly isn't alone with this shrinking disease, and she can go somewhere and be safe with others like her.
The ending was bitter sweet, and I had wished to see more of it, especially what it was like for Lilly growing up with others like her, and how she met her husband.
I wouldn't mind reading another book about that, as this new world the author created has left me wanting to know so much more about it.
Lilly is a tough girl complete with tatoo's and dreadlocks. She's married to a wonderful man named Eric, who loves her so very much, despite her rough exterior and stubborness.
Lily who stands at about six feet tall, realizes one day that she is shrinking. At first she tries to hide it from Eric, but he eventually notices. They are flabergasted that Lilly is getting shorter and it doesn't seem to be stopping. Eric's best friend Mark researches that there could be others like Lilly out there, those that have shrunk down to about six inches, and can no longer live amongst normal humans.
Eric is adiment about trying to live a normal life with his wife, despite the fact taht she is getting smaller and smaller every day. While Lilly doesn't want to get help from anyone and tries to do everything on her own despite being three feet tall.
I didn't like Lily as much as I wanted to. I found her to be way to stubborn. She should have just accepted Eric's, seen that she couldn't handle this problem on her own. Especially since Eric was so loving, caring, patient, and wanted nothing more then to see his wife happy. He wanted to help her, to show her that she wasn't alone, but Lily had a hard time getting that through her head. She seemed to think she was a burden to Eric, even though he told her he wasn't. Silly stubborn girl.
At the 75% mark the book really started to pick up, and I loved it. We know that Lilly isn't alone with this shrinking disease, and she can go somewhere and be safe with others like her.
The ending was bitter sweet, and I had wished to see more of it, especially what it was like for Lilly growing up with others like her, and how she met her husband.
I wouldn't mind reading another book about that, as this new world the author created has left me wanting to know so much more about it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2013
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So a couple of months ago I read Oath of Servitude by this same author and I fell in love! I adored that book and I felt the same about this one.
This story is very unique. It has a topic that no one would expect and right when you read the first page it's like a punch to the gut. From then on you are glued to the world of these two characters and barely anything can get you out of it -expect my mother. My mother will get anyone out of anything...I really loved this book, and I choked up a couple of times.
Lily Larkin was such a brave character in my mind. I really just wanted to just hug the crap out of her. She's one of those characters that intimidate you at first and then your all like "Lily I love you for being so strong! You're an inspiration to me!" She really does in my mind.
Erik Larkin is probably the perfect man. I really love his strength in this book. This book and his character really prove how strong true love can be. I kind of want to hug the crap out of him...and kiss the crap out of him..What? The man is incredibly hot.
The ending of this book is very bittersweet, especially the epilogue. It moves you in a way that you didn't know was possible. I have to say that the ending has to be my favorite part and I'm interested in seeing how the lives of Erik and Lily play out in the future. *cough* Novella please! *cough*
I highly recommend you pick up this book, read it, and then harass others to pick up, read it, and harass others. It's a never ending cycle!
*A copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
So a couple of months ago I read Oath of Servitude by this same author and I fell in love! I adored that book and I felt the same about this one.
This story is very unique. It has a topic that no one would expect and right when you read the first page it's like a punch to the gut. From then on you are glued to the world of these two characters and barely anything can get you out of it -expect my mother. My mother will get anyone out of anything...I really loved this book, and I choked up a couple of times.
Lily Larkin was such a brave character in my mind. I really just wanted to just hug the crap out of her. She's one of those characters that intimidate you at first and then your all like "Lily I love you for being so strong! You're an inspiration to me!" She really does in my mind.
Erik Larkin is probably the perfect man. I really love his strength in this book. This book and his character really prove how strong true love can be. I kind of want to hug the crap out of him...and kiss the crap out of him..What? The man is incredibly hot.
The ending of this book is very bittersweet, especially the epilogue. It moves you in a way that you didn't know was possible. I have to say that the ending has to be my favorite part and I'm interested in seeing how the lives of Erik and Lily play out in the future. *cough* Novella please! *cough*
I highly recommend you pick up this book, read it, and then harass others to pick up, read it, and harass others. It's a never ending cycle!
*A copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 20, 2013
The Promise is a unique, heart-warming romance that will lock the attention of readers throughout the entire reading experience.
Many plots seem to be the same stories retold over and over, but The Promise is not like that. The idea is very interesting, and the way the story is told keeps the reader tearing through the pages, eager to see what will happen next.
The main characters were in part a stunning achievement to the work. Lily is definitely not the average romantic lead. She is real. She made mistakes in her life that she has to live with, and she is tough around the edges. However, she also proved to be loving - and a closet romantic like the rest of us. Erik is caring, funny, and one cannot help but like him.
The romance in The Promise is sweet and really heart-warming, although it does not take up the entire novel. Still, the way that Lily and Erik stay together through a tested relationship is really remarkable, and both of them show a strength that is really admirable within characters.
The ending of The Promise is stunning, and really clearly displays the themes of living life but moving on, keeping memories to treasure instead of ending them in a negative way. Being able to look back at what happened at smile, living life to the fullest regardless of the situation that one is placed in.
It would have been nice to have learned more about the condition and why it happens, but I can understand why the story is focused on the two main characters, and that works well.
The Promise is an excellent novel for fans of romance, and is sure to please readers of all ages. An absolutely beautiful read.
Many plots seem to be the same stories retold over and over, but The Promise is not like that. The idea is very interesting, and the way the story is told keeps the reader tearing through the pages, eager to see what will happen next.
The main characters were in part a stunning achievement to the work. Lily is definitely not the average romantic lead. She is real. She made mistakes in her life that she has to live with, and she is tough around the edges. However, she also proved to be loving - and a closet romantic like the rest of us. Erik is caring, funny, and one cannot help but like him.
The romance in The Promise is sweet and really heart-warming, although it does not take up the entire novel. Still, the way that Lily and Erik stay together through a tested relationship is really remarkable, and both of them show a strength that is really admirable within characters.
The ending of The Promise is stunning, and really clearly displays the themes of living life but moving on, keeping memories to treasure instead of ending them in a negative way. Being able to look back at what happened at smile, living life to the fullest regardless of the situation that one is placed in.
It would have been nice to have learned more about the condition and why it happens, but I can understand why the story is focused on the two main characters, and that works well.
The Promise is an excellent novel for fans of romance, and is sure to please readers of all ages. An absolutely beautiful read.
September 29, 2014
*Received from the author in exchange for honest review
Introduction
Lily was once 6 feet tall. She has a good life despite her rough childhood. She has married a wonderful guy named Erik, and everything is perfect. Until one day she discovers that she is shrinking. I'ts only a little bit at first, then right before her eyes she's down to 4 feet. Now all she can do is try to continue to live her normal life, with the ever- present worry that the shrinking might not ever stop.
Cover
I don't like this cover, It's obvious that it's Lily, but I cannot stand entire faces on covers.
Lily
I liked Lily. She knows how to stand on her own, and hates being treated like a child. I admire the fact that she stayed pretty strong even though she was rapidly shrinking all the time
Erik
Erik was so sweet! Every time I read this book, Erik would say something so adorable to Lily. Some of these things were cheesy, but adorable at the same time.
Just as I felt bad for Lily, I felt bad for Erik too. Throughout the entire book, Erik felt as if Lily was slipping through his fingers, and that he could do nothing to help her. It was just so sad...*sigh*
Conclusion
This book is a fairly quick read, pretty light. I read it in a matter of days. Guys and girls could read this book and I think they could both enjoy it. I for one, really liked it
Introduction
Lily was once 6 feet tall. She has a good life despite her rough childhood. She has married a wonderful guy named Erik, and everything is perfect. Until one day she discovers that she is shrinking. I'ts only a little bit at first, then right before her eyes she's down to 4 feet. Now all she can do is try to continue to live her normal life, with the ever- present worry that the shrinking might not ever stop.
Cover
I don't like this cover, It's obvious that it's Lily, but I cannot stand entire faces on covers.
Lily
I liked Lily. She knows how to stand on her own, and hates being treated like a child. I admire the fact that she stayed pretty strong even though she was rapidly shrinking all the time
Erik
Erik was so sweet! Every time I read this book, Erik would say something so adorable to Lily. Some of these things were cheesy, but adorable at the same time.
Just as I felt bad for Lily, I felt bad for Erik too. Throughout the entire book, Erik felt as if Lily was slipping through his fingers, and that he could do nothing to help her. It was just so sad...*sigh*
Conclusion
This book is a fairly quick read, pretty light. I read it in a matter of days. Guys and girls could read this book and I think they could both enjoy it. I for one, really liked it
January 17, 2014
***I was given this book by the author in exchange for an honest review***
I have to say that this story is very unique. It's unlike any story I've read....ever...I'm pretty sure of that.
Lily is unlike most girls. She didn't have the greatest childhood, she's got dreads and is covered in tattoos. Erik is the clean cut, all around good guy, who comes from a good family and is working his way through college. They say that opposites attract... and these two certainly are opposites.
Oh what should be the happiest day of her life, Lily is given an alarming medical diagnosis. Is this something that she and Erik can work through? They have hope. They have love. What more could you need?
Lily and Erik marry and within a year her medical issue has taken control of their lives. She can't go out in public and they move to the middle of nowhere and both become recluses. Nothing that modern medicine can offer her can change what is happening to her. Then they learn that there are others like her...who have gone through the same changes she is going through. But how do you find them? No one knows the answer to that question.
Lily makes Erik promise her that he will move on with his life...he doesn't want to and truly believes that the stipulation put upon that promise will never come to be.
Have a box of tissues folks! You are definitely going to need them. Because sometimes...just sometimes...maybe love isn't enough.
I have to say that this story is very unique. It's unlike any story I've read....ever...I'm pretty sure of that.
Lily is unlike most girls. She didn't have the greatest childhood, she's got dreads and is covered in tattoos. Erik is the clean cut, all around good guy, who comes from a good family and is working his way through college. They say that opposites attract... and these two certainly are opposites.
Oh what should be the happiest day of her life, Lily is given an alarming medical diagnosis. Is this something that she and Erik can work through? They have hope. They have love. What more could you need?
Lily and Erik marry and within a year her medical issue has taken control of their lives. She can't go out in public and they move to the middle of nowhere and both become recluses. Nothing that modern medicine can offer her can change what is happening to her. Then they learn that there are others like her...who have gone through the same changes she is going through. But how do you find them? No one knows the answer to that question.
Lily makes Erik promise her that he will move on with his life...he doesn't want to and truly believes that the stipulation put upon that promise will never come to be.
Have a box of tissues folks! You are definitely going to need them. Because sometimes...just sometimes...maybe love isn't enough.
September 2, 2013
The Promise is a love story but it's also a story about the unwavering relationship between Lily and Erik. They meet at work. They both work at the same restaurant and Lily thinks Erik is attractive. She starts switching her shifts to coincide with his and before long, Erik takes notice... of Lily.
Lily was sent off to a foster home at age eleven. She then spent years in and out of good and bad foster homes until she was eighteen. She grew her hair out into dreads, picked up smoking and is covered in tattoos. She is older now and covers her tattoos for work and wears her hair up, but Erik falls in love with the real Lily.
They get married and are very happy until Lily gets sick. She has a rare disease that causes her body to shrink - once almost six feet and now just over four feet, Lily and Erik don't know what to do. Erik vows to love her for eternity and wants to help Lily with everyday things until they figure out how to cure her, but Lily feels like she is losing her humanity.
A beautifully written love story with two relatable and compelling characters that will intrigue you from the first page. The ending was a tad unexpected but Lily and Erik's story will remain with you long after you finish this fantastic read. Highly recommend!
Lily was sent off to a foster home at age eleven. She then spent years in and out of good and bad foster homes until she was eighteen. She grew her hair out into dreads, picked up smoking and is covered in tattoos. She is older now and covers her tattoos for work and wears her hair up, but Erik falls in love with the real Lily.
They get married and are very happy until Lily gets sick. She has a rare disease that causes her body to shrink - once almost six feet and now just over four feet, Lily and Erik don't know what to do. Erik vows to love her for eternity and wants to help Lily with everyday things until they figure out how to cure her, but Lily feels like she is losing her humanity.
A beautifully written love story with two relatable and compelling characters that will intrigue you from the first page. The ending was a tad unexpected but Lily and Erik's story will remain with you long after you finish this fantastic read. Highly recommend!
July 26, 2016
OMG!!! This is the first book that I have read by this author and it most certainly won't be the last.
I am not sure what you would class this book...YA/paranormal/fantasy. It doesn't really matter because the story is so touching. I have never read a story like it. From about 45/50% through this book, I have cried and sobbed hopping for a happy ending. Even now, writing this review I am choked. This story is fantasy, but the realty of the story, husband sticking by his wife through sickness and health really hits home.
I am not going to discuss the story, because you need to read it with a fresh pair of eyes so nothing is given away.
Have a box or two of hankies at the ready, because you will need them. I would give this book more than 5* and it takes a lot for a book to do that to me.
I am not sure what you would class this book...YA/paranormal/fantasy. It doesn't really matter because the story is so touching. I have never read a story like it. From about 45/50% through this book, I have cried and sobbed hopping for a happy ending. Even now, writing this review I am choked. This story is fantasy, but the realty of the story, husband sticking by his wife through sickness and health really hits home.
I am not going to discuss the story, because you need to read it with a fresh pair of eyes so nothing is given away.
Have a box or two of hankies at the ready, because you will need them. I would give this book more than 5* and it takes a lot for a book to do that to me.
November 6, 2013
I LOVED The Promise! I felt like I knew Lily And Erik, and could easily feel the emotions they felt.
The Promise is not like any other book I’ve ever read, and that just made me like it ever more! C.E. Wilson made her characters real, they weren’t perfect, they made mistakes just like the rest of us, and it made the story feel more real and interesting.
This is a unique, beautifully written book that I urge all romance lovers to pick up and experience it for yourself. I’m on my way to find more by C.E. Wilson and add The Promise to my favorites!
Thanks C.E. Wilson for a great story!
The Promise is not like any other book I’ve ever read, and that just made me like it ever more! C.E. Wilson made her characters real, they weren’t perfect, they made mistakes just like the rest of us, and it made the story feel more real and interesting.
This is a unique, beautifully written book that I urge all romance lovers to pick up and experience it for yourself. I’m on my way to find more by C.E. Wilson and add The Promise to my favorites!
Thanks C.E. Wilson for a great story!
July 25, 2016
A very different take on a love story. Every couple has problems, but none quite as dramatic as this couple. Eric and Lily are polar opposites. Until something happens to Lily. (Yes I'm being vague because I don't want to spoil it)
The love between them is great. But due to Lily's issues it is put to the test. Parts of the story just seemed to be repeated. There's only so many ways you can argue over the same subject. Sweet ending. Not your average love story. But if you're looking for a quick sweet read this is a pretty good book.
The love between them is great. But due to Lily's issues it is put to the test. Parts of the story just seemed to be repeated. There's only so many ways you can argue over the same subject. Sweet ending. Not your average love story. But if you're looking for a quick sweet read this is a pretty good book.
August 11, 2016
This is a fantastic story about love and letting go. The characters are richly drawn and their relationship completely believable.
Though they do hash up the same argument, it's the central plot device in the novel: Lily's unbelievable and tragic affliction. I believe that if this were to happen in real life, a loving husband and wife would have the same conversations.
The ending left me both speechless and misty-eyed. Highly recommended, and bravo to the author!
Though they do hash up the same argument, it's the central plot device in the novel: Lily's unbelievable and tragic affliction. I believe that if this were to happen in real life, a loving husband and wife would have the same conversations.
The ending left me both speechless and misty-eyed. Highly recommended, and bravo to the author!
October 23, 2013
Link to review below. Short quick review: Amazing book! Love it! Absolutely loved it!
http://shootingstarsandpixiedust.word...
http://shootingstarsandpixiedust.word...
October 20, 2017
This was very strange. I'm not sure whether this story is romantic or just eerie. I'm a short woman myself just 5'0 feet, and I'm not sure if shrinking would make much of a difference in my life. Maybe in someways yes,but in most not so much. But I'm not all about the inches lol! I really prefer a man much taller than myself, but I think the story's about a deeper connection. These are two people who are separated by two different communities, ethnicities, and now lifestyle. There's alot stacked up against that relationship that truly love alone can't save by itself. Yes it's a blessing to have memories, because they truly are the most trustworthy and loyal feelings you can savor until time slowly takes it from you. what Erik and Lily's relationship was a very tumulus, but a loving one!
December 7, 2016
I loved Lily and Erik's relationship, this storyline is quite unreal and unique. Lily starts shrinking at an unprecedented rate. The couple tries to keep moving forward together, but in the end they needed to come to terms with their new reality. The last few paragraphs had me all choked up. If you're looking for something different, this is it. I'm pretty sure I love Erik myself.
August 2, 2016
4.5 STARS
If you’ve followed my reviews, you should know by now that I’m a fan of author C.E. Wilson’s work, particularly her tales of size-disparate people. Whether it be the giant world of To Nowhere, or the dystopian tale with a twist The Boy with Words, you know you’re in for a well-thought-out story with her. So when the opportunity arose to read a newly revised edition of her novel The Promise—in exchange for an honest review—I didn’t hesitate.
I actually read this story a few years ago before I started blogging. I enjoyed it then, and it prompted me to pick up her subsequent books when they were released. After seeing her exceptional work afterwards, particularly with YA plots, I was intrigued to revisit this story, which is an NA (New Adult) urban romantic fantasy. So how does it compare to the story that hooked me on her writing in the first place?
Let’s take a look, after I make the promise to be as spoiler-free as possible.
The book opens in a doctor’s office, with our narrator Lily receiving confirmation of an unbelievable diagnosis: she has been shrinking, and at that appointment, she stands about one foot shorter than her original six-foot height. On that very same day, her live-in boyfriend Erik proposes marriage to her—complete with an engagement ring that fits her thinned finger.
If you’re ever looking for truth in the old adage opposites attract, look to Lily and Erik. They have very different upbringings: he comes from a wealthy and loving family, while she has bounced through foster homes and has learned to fend for herself. She comes tattooed and dreadlocked vs. his clean-cut white-collar status, but they really fit together well as a couple.
The first few chapters of this story are fantastic. Interspersed among them are flashbacks of how Lily and Erik first got together and how Erik discovers Lily had lost the first few inches from her height. The banter between them is fun-loving and genuine, establishing them as a well-functioning couple. For this reason, it’s easy to root for them—to hope that they will overcome the challenge of Lily getting smaller… and smaller…
With Erik well over six feet tall, and Lily in the mid-four-foot range, they experience stares, whispers, and rude comments from patrons and employees in a clothing store and a diner. During these scenes, I thought about how this book really had the potential to be a parable for fair and respectful treatment no matter your size, shape, appearance, or physical/medical condition. Everyone deserves that—isn’t that what it means to be human?
What does it mean to be human? is the provocative tagline for the book. The question weighs heavily on Lily as she shrinks beyond the size of a Barbie doll and feels less and less human. However, I find her humanity shows through more when she is so small. She loves Erik so much and can’t expect him to take care of her while she’s helplessly small, but worse, she can’t bear to watch him go through the sadness of watching her wither away, perhaps to nothing. That’s where the titular promise comes into play—which I won’t reveal because I promised I wouldn’t spoil certain things.
Though Lily’s characterization grows more complex as she shrinks, the real star of the story is Erik. His dedication to his wife, no matter how small she gets, is incredible and uplifting to read about, and it brought to mind true-life stories of people staying by the side of loved ones with terminal diseases.
Though the ending is heartbreakingly bittersweet in how it touches upon another theme, the circumstances leading to it—particularly with the introduction of a third character—seem a little too convenient given the really deep issues posited by the story. In real life, terminal afflictions such as cancer can strike without warning, and though Lily’s shrinking is hopefully not realistic, it striking her randomly has in-world believability. However, this is a story and not real life, and Lily’s unique medical condition can be used metaphorically. Does it symbolize that how well people fit together is sometimes temporary? Or does it try to show that true love can overcome such changes? I’m not sure.
But hey, Wilson is an extremely talented and imaginative author. There are well-developed and likeable characters, a sweet romance, and a unique plot that clearly made me think about many different real-world issues—so much that I wanted more of that, particularly before Lily shrank all the way to doll-size. But there’s so much human insight in this story, so let my FOUR-AND-A-HALF-STAR review of The Promise be a promise that you’ll enjoy it.
If you’ve followed my reviews, you should know by now that I’m a fan of author C.E. Wilson’s work, particularly her tales of size-disparate people. Whether it be the giant world of To Nowhere, or the dystopian tale with a twist The Boy with Words, you know you’re in for a well-thought-out story with her. So when the opportunity arose to read a newly revised edition of her novel The Promise—in exchange for an honest review—I didn’t hesitate.
I actually read this story a few years ago before I started blogging. I enjoyed it then, and it prompted me to pick up her subsequent books when they were released. After seeing her exceptional work afterwards, particularly with YA plots, I was intrigued to revisit this story, which is an NA (New Adult) urban romantic fantasy. So how does it compare to the story that hooked me on her writing in the first place?
Let’s take a look, after I make the promise to be as spoiler-free as possible.
The book opens in a doctor’s office, with our narrator Lily receiving confirmation of an unbelievable diagnosis: she has been shrinking, and at that appointment, she stands about one foot shorter than her original six-foot height. On that very same day, her live-in boyfriend Erik proposes marriage to her—complete with an engagement ring that fits her thinned finger.
If you’re ever looking for truth in the old adage opposites attract, look to Lily and Erik. They have very different upbringings: he comes from a wealthy and loving family, while she has bounced through foster homes and has learned to fend for herself. She comes tattooed and dreadlocked vs. his clean-cut white-collar status, but they really fit together well as a couple.
The first few chapters of this story are fantastic. Interspersed among them are flashbacks of how Lily and Erik first got together and how Erik discovers Lily had lost the first few inches from her height. The banter between them is fun-loving and genuine, establishing them as a well-functioning couple. For this reason, it’s easy to root for them—to hope that they will overcome the challenge of Lily getting smaller… and smaller…
With Erik well over six feet tall, and Lily in the mid-four-foot range, they experience stares, whispers, and rude comments from patrons and employees in a clothing store and a diner. During these scenes, I thought about how this book really had the potential to be a parable for fair and respectful treatment no matter your size, shape, appearance, or physical/medical condition. Everyone deserves that—isn’t that what it means to be human?
What does it mean to be human? is the provocative tagline for the book. The question weighs heavily on Lily as she shrinks beyond the size of a Barbie doll and feels less and less human. However, I find her humanity shows through more when she is so small. She loves Erik so much and can’t expect him to take care of her while she’s helplessly small, but worse, she can’t bear to watch him go through the sadness of watching her wither away, perhaps to nothing. That’s where the titular promise comes into play—which I won’t reveal because I promised I wouldn’t spoil certain things.
Though Lily’s characterization grows more complex as she shrinks, the real star of the story is Erik. His dedication to his wife, no matter how small she gets, is incredible and uplifting to read about, and it brought to mind true-life stories of people staying by the side of loved ones with terminal diseases.
Though the ending is heartbreakingly bittersweet in how it touches upon another theme, the circumstances leading to it—particularly with the introduction of a third character—seem a little too convenient given the really deep issues posited by the story. In real life, terminal afflictions such as cancer can strike without warning, and though Lily’s shrinking is hopefully not realistic, it striking her randomly has in-world believability. However, this is a story and not real life, and Lily’s unique medical condition can be used metaphorically. Does it symbolize that how well people fit together is sometimes temporary? Or does it try to show that true love can overcome such changes? I’m not sure.
But hey, Wilson is an extremely talented and imaginative author. There are well-developed and likeable characters, a sweet romance, and a unique plot that clearly made me think about many different real-world issues—so much that I wanted more of that, particularly before Lily shrank all the way to doll-size. But there’s so much human insight in this story, so let my FOUR-AND-A-HALF-STAR review of The Promise be a promise that you’ll enjoy it.
October 15, 2016
Fantastic
This book was fantastic. I laughed, I cryed, very touching story. I wish the outcome was different but something good did come out in the end. I loved this book thank you for this
This book was fantastic. I laughed, I cryed, very touching story. I wish the outcome was different but something good did come out in the end. I loved this book thank you for this
March 10, 2017
Great book. I could see this one becoming a required reading for school someday. I'd recommend this to anyone.
August 15, 2016
Book Review: The Promise
Author C.E. Wilson
Four stars
Lily comes from a troubled background. Her mother gave her up when she was eleven and she bounced around in foster homes after. Covered in tattoos and has dreadlocked hair. Tall for a woman, at almost 6 feet, Lily finds herself interested in a man named Erik. Erik clean-cut, nicely dressed, grew up in a more priviledged home. Two loving parents best of everything.
They start noticing each other and working the same shifts. One day at the end of her shift Lily is standing outside smoking when Eric approaches her and they start talking and he finally asks her out.
After a couple years of living together Lily starts noticing that her clothes aren't fitting like they used to. Everything is too long, what could be the problem? But she tries to hide it from Eric. He notices that she doesn't feel like she used to. When he notices that she is wearing platform heeled shoes he makes her take them off so that he can see what she is trying to hide. After realizing that she has lost a good 6 inches in height Lily agrees to go to a friend of Erik's who is a doctor.
Mark, the doctor, confirms their worries that Lily is indeed shrinking. However they dont know why. There are no other medical reports about anyone that has had this happen to them.
This book reminded me somewhat of the movie "The Incredible Shrinking Woman" however there are no children, no pets, and Lily stops trying to do the things that it is painfully obvious that she cannot do. This book is a love story through and through about how Lily and Erik cope and deal with Lily's ever changing body.
After several months and when Lily is down to just a mere 6 inches tall, they discover a man named Sterrin. Sterrin is a "changed one" as well as Lily. He has come to let them know about a group of Changed that lives right there in the woods around the cabin where Erik and Lily live. Erik makes Sterrin leave and said he can return when Lily is 2 inches tall.
I am going to stop there and just say. This book made me a bit skeptical in the beginning. How do you read a story that contains just two people for the majority of it and not get bored. Well. I can honestly say I read it all in a day. Once I started in reading and learning about all that they were facing as a couple I just couldnt put it down until I got to the end and found out how it all turned out. I cried along with them. I smiled when they did. I was worried Erik would drop Lily. But it was a page turner. You keep turning with hope and fear and dread. Just wondering WHAT is going to happen. Happy reading and I hope you enjoy this as much as I did
Author C.E. Wilson
Four stars
Lily comes from a troubled background. Her mother gave her up when she was eleven and she bounced around in foster homes after. Covered in tattoos and has dreadlocked hair. Tall for a woman, at almost 6 feet, Lily finds herself interested in a man named Erik. Erik clean-cut, nicely dressed, grew up in a more priviledged home. Two loving parents best of everything.
They start noticing each other and working the same shifts. One day at the end of her shift Lily is standing outside smoking when Eric approaches her and they start talking and he finally asks her out.
After a couple years of living together Lily starts noticing that her clothes aren't fitting like they used to. Everything is too long, what could be the problem? But she tries to hide it from Eric. He notices that she doesn't feel like she used to. When he notices that she is wearing platform heeled shoes he makes her take them off so that he can see what she is trying to hide. After realizing that she has lost a good 6 inches in height Lily agrees to go to a friend of Erik's who is a doctor.
Mark, the doctor, confirms their worries that Lily is indeed shrinking. However they dont know why. There are no other medical reports about anyone that has had this happen to them.
This book reminded me somewhat of the movie "The Incredible Shrinking Woman" however there are no children, no pets, and Lily stops trying to do the things that it is painfully obvious that she cannot do. This book is a love story through and through about how Lily and Erik cope and deal with Lily's ever changing body.
After several months and when Lily is down to just a mere 6 inches tall, they discover a man named Sterrin. Sterrin is a "changed one" as well as Lily. He has come to let them know about a group of Changed that lives right there in the woods around the cabin where Erik and Lily live. Erik makes Sterrin leave and said he can return when Lily is 2 inches tall.
I am going to stop there and just say. This book made me a bit skeptical in the beginning. How do you read a story that contains just two people for the majority of it and not get bored. Well. I can honestly say I read it all in a day. Once I started in reading and learning about all that they were facing as a couple I just couldnt put it down until I got to the end and found out how it all turned out. I cried along with them. I smiled when they did. I was worried Erik would drop Lily. But it was a page turner. You keep turning with hope and fear and dread. Just wondering WHAT is going to happen. Happy reading and I hope you enjoy this as much as I did
August 13, 2013
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I had never heard of this book until the author contacted me about it. After reading the synopsis, I wasn't too sure how I felt about it. It definitely seemed like something different from what I normally read, but I thought I'd give it a chance.
The Promise is about a woman, Lily, who is diagnosed with an extremely rare disease. Lily is shrinking and no one seems to know why. Every single day Lily seems to shrink even more and her husband feels helpless because he doesn't know what to do to help her. When they visit their doctor, he doesn't know what to do to stop it. It seems as though no one has heard of a person shrinking before. Lily feels like she is losing everything and that she'll eventually shrink into nothing. All Lily and her husband can do is hope for the best at this point.
I enjoyed reading about Lily and the struggles that she faced even when trying to do normal, everyday things. I loved that Lily's husband's love for her was unconditional. He was there for her through everything, no matter what. He didn't care how small she was; he still loved her through it all.
I have to admit that Lily did get on my nerves sometimes. I understand that she wanted to be independent, but you have to let people help you sometimes. I didn't like how stubborn she was to admit that she needed help, even when her husband was extremely willing to help. Overall though, I did like Lily. She was a strong character and pretty likeable. I wish there would've been more depth to the characters, though.
The ending kind of shocked me, to be honest. I didn't expect things to end like that, but I can't say that I'm not happy about it. I liked the way it ended, but I think I would've liked it better if things went a different way. I'm a sucker for happily ever afters.
I gave this book 3/5 stars because I enjoyed it, but there were some things that I felt were missing. I thought some parts of the story were repetitive and I wished the characters were more developed.
Do I recommend this book? Sure! If it sounds interesting to you, go ahead and give it a chance! It's a fairly short read and I think you might enjoy it.
Click here to see more reviews on my blog!
I had never heard of this book until the author contacted me about it. After reading the synopsis, I wasn't too sure how I felt about it. It definitely seemed like something different from what I normally read, but I thought I'd give it a chance.
The Promise is about a woman, Lily, who is diagnosed with an extremely rare disease. Lily is shrinking and no one seems to know why. Every single day Lily seems to shrink even more and her husband feels helpless because he doesn't know what to do to help her. When they visit their doctor, he doesn't know what to do to stop it. It seems as though no one has heard of a person shrinking before. Lily feels like she is losing everything and that she'll eventually shrink into nothing. All Lily and her husband can do is hope for the best at this point.
I enjoyed reading about Lily and the struggles that she faced even when trying to do normal, everyday things. I loved that Lily's husband's love for her was unconditional. He was there for her through everything, no matter what. He didn't care how small she was; he still loved her through it all.
I have to admit that Lily did get on my nerves sometimes. I understand that she wanted to be independent, but you have to let people help you sometimes. I didn't like how stubborn she was to admit that she needed help, even when her husband was extremely willing to help. Overall though, I did like Lily. She was a strong character and pretty likeable. I wish there would've been more depth to the characters, though.
The ending kind of shocked me, to be honest. I didn't expect things to end like that, but I can't say that I'm not happy about it. I liked the way it ended, but I think I would've liked it better if things went a different way. I'm a sucker for happily ever afters.
I gave this book 3/5 stars because I enjoyed it, but there were some things that I felt were missing. I thought some parts of the story were repetitive and I wished the characters were more developed.
Favorite quote: "'That's my heart,' Erik replied. 'I want you to remember it. My heart beats for you, Lily, and no matter what happens...it always will.'"
Do I recommend this book? Sure! If it sounds interesting to you, go ahead and give it a chance! It's a fairly short read and I think you might enjoy it.
Click here to see more reviews on my blog!
July 26, 2016
Definitely get out your tissues
C. E. instantly grabs your attention in the beginning of this novel with two life altering events happening to Lily at the same time. She gets engaged to the love her life, Erik, in the doctors office while at the same time getting the devastating news that she is shrinking and the doctor doesn't know why or how to stop it.
She is devastated and cannot understand why Erik would want to stay with her when the future is so uncertain. She struggles with the fact that now that she's truly happy and over her horrible childhood that she could lose everything she thought she would never have. She struggles with depression and aggression while trying to understand and deal with the fact that she's getting smaller.
Erik's love and devotion to staying with Lily through the entire book is so touching and heartbreaking at the same time. You can feel his love and his devastation at watching his love shrink almost on a daily basis. You are touched by how he changes everything to be with her when neither knows when this will end or even if it will end. There's a strong possibility that Lily could just disappear one day.
C. E. takes you through their journey dealing with Lily's daily struggles keeping her sanity and her humanity. Will she stop shrinking? How can she remain with Erik if she gets to small? Can she leave him if she must? What is the promise made? Will she completely disappear? Will she be alone forever in her own small world?
For those answers you have to read this book. You'll need a box of Kleenex readily available for this book pulls those emotions out of you. I cried at so many different points in this book for their sadness as well as how touching their relationship evolves against impossible odds against them. I absolutely loved this book. This is my first experience with C. E. Wilson and I'm already looking forward to reading more from this author.
C. E. instantly grabs your attention in the beginning of this novel with two life altering events happening to Lily at the same time. She gets engaged to the love her life, Erik, in the doctors office while at the same time getting the devastating news that she is shrinking and the doctor doesn't know why or how to stop it.
She is devastated and cannot understand why Erik would want to stay with her when the future is so uncertain. She struggles with the fact that now that she's truly happy and over her horrible childhood that she could lose everything she thought she would never have. She struggles with depression and aggression while trying to understand and deal with the fact that she's getting smaller.
Erik's love and devotion to staying with Lily through the entire book is so touching and heartbreaking at the same time. You can feel his love and his devastation at watching his love shrink almost on a daily basis. You are touched by how he changes everything to be with her when neither knows when this will end or even if it will end. There's a strong possibility that Lily could just disappear one day.
C. E. takes you through their journey dealing with Lily's daily struggles keeping her sanity and her humanity. Will she stop shrinking? How can she remain with Erik if she gets to small? Can she leave him if she must? What is the promise made? Will she completely disappear? Will she be alone forever in her own small world?
For those answers you have to read this book. You'll need a box of Kleenex readily available for this book pulls those emotions out of you. I cried at so many different points in this book for their sadness as well as how touching their relationship evolves against impossible odds against them. I absolutely loved this book. This is my first experience with C. E. Wilson and I'm already looking forward to reading more from this author.
January 17, 2014
***I was given this book by the author in exchange for an honest review***
I have to say that this story is very unique. It's unlike any story I've read....ever...I'm pretty sure of that.
Lily is unlike most girls. She didn't have the greatest childhood, she's got dreads and is covered in tattoos. Erik is the clean cut, all around good guy, who comes from a good family and is working his way through college. They say that opposites attract... and these two certainly are opposites.
Oh what should be the happiest day of her life, Lily is given an alarming medical diagnosis. Is this something that she and Erik can work through? They have hope. They have love. What more could you need?
Lily and Erik marry and within a year her medical issue has taken control of their lives. She can't go out in public and they move to the middle of nowhere and both become recluses. Nothing that modern medicine can offer her can change what is happening to her. Then they learn that there are others like her...who have gone through the same changes she is going through. But how do you find them? No one knows the answer to that question.
Lily makes Erik promise her that he will move on with his life...he doesn't want to and truly believes that the stipulation put upon that promise will never come to be.
Have a box of tissues folks! You are definitely going to need them. Because sometimes...just sometimes...maybe love isn't enough.
I have to say that this story is very unique. It's unlike any story I've read....ever...I'm pretty sure of that.
Lily is unlike most girls. She didn't have the greatest childhood, she's got dreads and is covered in tattoos. Erik is the clean cut, all around good guy, who comes from a good family and is working his way through college. They say that opposites attract... and these two certainly are opposites.
Oh what should be the happiest day of her life, Lily is given an alarming medical diagnosis. Is this something that she and Erik can work through? They have hope. They have love. What more could you need?
Lily and Erik marry and within a year her medical issue has taken control of their lives. She can't go out in public and they move to the middle of nowhere and both become recluses. Nothing that modern medicine can offer her can change what is happening to her. Then they learn that there are others like her...who have gone through the same changes she is going through. But how do you find them? No one knows the answer to that question.
Lily makes Erik promise her that he will move on with his life...he doesn't want to and truly believes that the stipulation put upon that promise will never come to be.
Have a box of tissues folks! You are definitely going to need them. Because sometimes...just sometimes...maybe love isn't enough.
September 4, 2016
This book was not what I expected at all! Without reading the blurb I jumped in with both feet and started the journey with Lily and Erik.
Excerpt:
"You deserve to be happy, goofball. I promise that I will try to keep you happy, and I hope I can be the one you'll stay with until...."
"Until the end?" I answered grimly.
With a condition that doctors have little to no knowledge of, what lies ahead of the pair is questionable.
I genuinely expected to be bubbling for the duration of the books, but the avenue this story took, actually blew me away.
Excerpt:
I would not be useless. I was still a human. A small human, but I had not lost my humanity yet. One step at a time.
What I can only call a magical grown up fairytale, that left me aghast and exhilarated. One of those books I can honestly say I've never read anything like it before. Simply brilliant and can't wait to read more by this author!
Excerpt:
"You deserve to be happy, goofball. I promise that I will try to keep you happy, and I hope I can be the one you'll stay with until...."
"Until the end?" I answered grimly.
With a condition that doctors have little to no knowledge of, what lies ahead of the pair is questionable.
I genuinely expected to be bubbling for the duration of the books, but the avenue this story took, actually blew me away.
Excerpt:
I would not be useless. I was still a human. A small human, but I had not lost my humanity yet. One step at a time.
What I can only call a magical grown up fairytale, that left me aghast and exhilarated. One of those books I can honestly say I've never read anything like it before. Simply brilliant and can't wait to read more by this author!
July 25, 2016
This novel is about a young women named Lily Evans on what should have been a day of great happiness she is diagnosed with a rare and unbelievable disease she is shrinking possibly without limit. This is a very well written beautiful love story with two compelling and realistic main characters. This is an amazing unique story about love and letting go. This book has the ability to surprise you, sadden you, and make you laugh. Lily and Erik's story will remain with you long after you finish reading this fantastic read. The Promise is such an unusual and unique story that it gets you hooked from the beginning. You may want to put your tissue box next to you as you may need it as I did. You will not be disappointed. I was given a free copy in exchange for a honest review.
July 25, 2016
I received this book for an honest review! And it is honestly the first book I have read by C. E. Wilson!
This is a great story. I love Erik! He is the devoted husband for sure. Through it all he stays by Lily's side even as she pulls away from him. I was on the edge of my seat, not knowing what would happen next. I love how this story flows.
I gave it 4 out of 5 stars cause the ending was just not there for me. I felt like I needed more and it was a little quick. It didn't give you closer for the book. I was left confused and wanting to know much more. And with the interaction between Erik and his children, they seem older than five years old. But the story states it has been five years. That really threw me.
In all it is a great story and i recommend it to EVERYONE!!
This is a great story. I love Erik! He is the devoted husband for sure. Through it all he stays by Lily's side even as she pulls away from him. I was on the edge of my seat, not knowing what would happen next. I love how this story flows.
I gave it 4 out of 5 stars cause the ending was just not there for me. I felt like I needed more and it was a little quick. It didn't give you closer for the book. I was left confused and wanting to know much more. And with the interaction between Erik and his children, they seem older than five years old. But the story states it has been five years. That really threw me.
In all it is a great story and i recommend it to EVERYONE!!
July 25, 2016
This is my first book by this writer and my hats off to you. To tackle the type of book and actually pull it off in great style. Although at some points it was repetitive it would be hard not to and keep the story going. I loved that Lily was strong (even to the point of being annoying at times) and that she loved like she lived, completely. With the obstacles she faced to meet the love of her life at first sight, someone who showed her she was beautiful unique and worthy of love was an amazing gift. Erik was indeed a special man to love her and stand by her to the very end. And the ending oh man that was special. I do love the ending. All in all a great read. I look forward to more enjoyable reads.
September 10, 2016
C. E. Wilson has done a wonderful job. Lily, at almost 6 feet tall, is beautiful, and exotic. And she has a prince of a boyfriend, or well, fiancé in Eric. She, a foster child, with regrets, and he, a rich kid pretty boy, fell in love working at a diner. They were going to live the good life, but one day Lily started shrinking. This story starts at the doctor's office with a proposal. This was a fast read, but not necessarily light. With the main character shrinking, you keep reading wanting to know what happens. I gave this book 4 stars because I would have liked a little more development. Especially at the end, I wanted to know more, instead it just stopped. Yes, it had been wrapped up, but it also began a new moment, and I wanted to know more about that, and how they got there.
August 8, 2016
Lily is unlike most girls. She didn't have the greatest childhood, she's got dreads and is covered in tattoos. Erik is the clean cut, all around good guy, who comes from a good family and is working his way through college. But Erik falls in love with the real Lily. They get married and are very happy until Lily gets sick. She has a rare disease that causes her body to shrink. She was once almost six feet and now just over four feet, Lily and Erik don't know what to do. Erik vows to love her for eternity.
This was a fantastic book it made me ugly cry. so grab your tissues your gonna need them
This was a fantastic book it made me ugly cry. so grab your tissues your gonna need them
July 25, 2016
I can't stop crying! What a sad story :( Lily is shrinking and it's affecting her relationship with Erik. Erik loves her and doesn't want to lose her and yes he gets aggravated and scared at times cause Lily gets so tiny but Erik doesn't care but will love solve everything? Will Lily be comfortable being around Erik even though she's got this disease? What will Lily do when she meets someone with the same problem? What a beautiful story. I do hope there is a second book to this story. Remember plenty of Kleenex and icecream after reading this! I received this book for a unbiased review
August 31, 2017
I would like to start out by saying that this story was unlike anything I have ever read. It was very beautifully written about a couple who are complete opposites in just about every way except for their love for each other. What should of been the happiest day of her life is marred by a diagnosis of a rare and incurable disease that causes her to shrink. I loved that they loved each other as much as they did and found the arguments that they did have to be realistic. By the time I finished this book I was crying!
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