The Heights

by Shaelyn Gaskin

After a tragic skiing accident takes the lives of their parents, the young Sean and Ada Wheeler are orphaned and left to deal with the overwhelming thralls of grief. Sean, a mere 21-year-old, is given the responsibility of his parents' estate and business. As if that wasn't enough, he is also made the legal guardian of his 15-year-old sister, Ada, who is struggling to cope with the reality of her parents' death. The siblings struggle with this new relationship dynamic as they each process their grief in very different ways. Delving into the complications of grief, this story examines the hardships of losing a loved one while showcasing the different ways grief presents itself. Ada's journey, while difficult, seeks to provide the reader with a sense of hope that even the toughest obstacles in life can be overcome with the love and support of those around you.

170 pages, Hardcover

Published August 4, 2023

Reviews

[Lucas Campanella · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this story so much. Each of the characters had such a unique aspect to them that made them all so loveable in their own way. This was a beautiful story about friends, family, and the change that occurs when you lose someone you care for so much. This book was a rollercoaster full of happy and sad tears that I never wanted to end. Please go out and read this book, I promise you will appreciate the gift of life a little more

[Mark Mullally · Rating 4 out of 5]

The conventional way we are told to handle grief, that is, to "just move on and keep on living because that is what they would have wanted us to do" is not for everyone. Individuals process grief through the same stages but differently, sometimes staying in one stage longer than another. This book was an authentic portrayal of how we grapple with the tentacles of grief after we lose a loved one. Well done, Shae!

[Michael Perak · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book gripped me from start to finish. As an older brother, Sean was a character I strongly connected with. This is a beautiful story of love, connection, and life. I would highly recommend!

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 5/5

This coming of age book showed the true journey of grief. The way it is not simple, linear, or understandable. At such a young age and crucial part of her life, Ada loses two big cheerleaders of hers. Bringing the reader through Ada’s grieving process, we saw how important friends, family, and your own mental health attribute to healing. Ada faced so much turmoil in the months following her parent’s death - just trying to find solace and peace in what is such a difficult time. The author made a remarkable story in telling the readers to allow in those in your life that are close to you when you need them. Ada had such an amazing support system and it was so heartbreaking to see she felt the need to grieve and process on her own. Anyone in their own grief journey or trying to understand the experience will find immense comfort in this book. Finding my own shared feelings alongside Ada, I knew exactly the own pain her heart was feeling but also how much Sean wanted to be there for her while giving Ada her own safe space and comfort. The love these siblings share for each other is so adamant and I hope beyond the epilogue they both continue to support each other’s new path to happiness and mental health.

[Gillybean · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. What a whirlwind of emotions. This book was a beautiful story about family, friends, and coping with life's hardships. The dynamic between siblings Sean and Ada was realistic and heartwarming. This book is beautifully written and paints a vivid picture of grief, love, and the struggles of growing up. Would highly recommend!

[Colleen Abbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a gem! A beautiful story about how friends and family can help us on our journey through difficult times! Definitely a promising future for this young author!

[Theresa Kapustynski · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a wonderful story that evidently came from the heart; you know how to truly depict the experience of grief and all of the different versions and faces it comes with. This story felt both familiar and new at the same time, as I was able to empathize with the characters but also question what was going to happen on the next page. I love your writing style and I am already awaiting "The Heights 2" or whatever other tale you decide to write next!!

[Natalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shaelyn shows great promise with her debut novel. From start to finish you are captivated and emotionally invested.

[Prema O'Grady · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found Shaelyn's tiktok account and while watching her videos decided I really wanted to read her book! So I think it was in June when I bought her book, and I really enjoyed the story! I think the book is really well written, and it was very entertaining. But most of all it was so meaningful, and I felt like I could feel Ada's pain.
Thank you so much for sharing your story!