B.O.A.T.

by Alexandria Pall

Seventeen-year-old April has spent her childhood in therapy, learning to dismiss her imaginary friends as just imaginary. Now, as a college freshman, she hopes to leave behind the whispers and cruel rumors that have plagued her for years.When April begins to embrace her newfound independence, her world is turned upside down when she crosses paths with Tommy and Bobby, two figures her therapist insisted were figments of her imagination.Nineteen-year-old Tommy has spent his life waiting for a mission that has haunted him. April’s reappearance shatters his reality, prompting him, April and Bobby to uncover a hidden truth that will change everything.The trio must unite to fulfill their destiny. But an ominous force is closing in on them, one that will stop at nothing to prevent them from completing their mission. The stakes grow darker, threatening not only their lives but the wellbeing of future generations.With time running out and the world’s fate hanging in the balance, fitting in will be the least of April’s concerns. She will need to confront the demons of her past and present, fighting for what she cherishes most.

Genres: Fiction

378 pages, Hardcover

Published November 22, 2023

Reviews

[Maven_Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

B.O.A.T by Alexandria Pall Review

B.O.A.T by Alexandria Pall is a thought‑provoking young adult paranormal suspense novel that mixes identity, imagination, friendship, and destiny into an intense coming‑of‑age adventure. The story centers on April, a college freshman who has spent much of her life in therapy learning to dismiss her imaginary friends as figments of her past. When she unexpectedly crosses paths with Tommy and Bobby, figures she was told were only in her head, her world tilts on its axis. Instead of fading into memory, Tommy and Bobby reveal a mission that ties their fates together, compelling them to unravel a mystery with stakes that grow darker, threatening not just their lives but the future of others as they race against time to fulfill a destiny that has eluded them. This isn’t a typical YA fantasy or romance; it has deeper philosophical layers about mental health, belonging, and confronting inner demons, with paranormal twists that keep readers guessing.

From the moment I stepped into April’s world, I was struck by how vividly the novel blends emotional nuance with supernatural intrigue. April’s struggle to reconcile her past, her perceived oddities, and her desire to belong felt achingly real and gave weight to her choices and fears, while the sudden reappearance of Tommy and Bobby made me question the boundaries between imagination and reality alongside her. The pacing kept me eagerly turning pages as friendships deepen and revelations unfold, even as some plot twists around the mission and mystical elements pushed into territory that feels intense and unusual compared to more familiar YA narratives.

I also appreciated how the book doesn’t shy away from exploring April’s internal conflicts, whether about identity, self‑worth, or destiny giving emotional depth beneath the supernatural surface. Although the paranormal and mission elements might be polarizing and may not appeal to all readers, B.O.A.T left me with a curious blend of heart and mystery, feeling as though I’d traveled with April through the storm of self‑doubt toward something genuinely compelling and uniquely personal.

Rating: 4 out of 5
Because the heartfelt character journey and supernatural mystery made this a captivating, emotionally rich YA adventure that moved me and stayed with me beyond its pages.

[April · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book offers a unique premise and engaging writing style, but the pacing felt uneven, and some character development was lacking. While it had moments of brilliance, it didn't quite meet my expectations for a truly immersive reading experience.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Olivia Venuta · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was the author’s debut and I applaud her for her unique concept. This just wasn’t the book for me… I don’t know what I was expecting, but it was not this. I wish there was more character development — I wasn’t attached to any one of the characters and I wish I knew more about Adam and Bobby, specifically. The serpent was an interesting add. And the ending felt rushed. That’s all I’ll say but again, I’ve never written a book, so kudos for her first one.

1.5

[Rhea · Rating 3 out of 5]

I want to start off the review by stating that I won this book in the GoodReads giveaway, and am grateful for the opportunity to read it.

I don't plan to spoil too much of the story, but I marked my review as spoilers as I will discuss somethings from that book that some people maybe want to read and discover on their own.

I really, REALLY, wanted to like this book. When I read the synopsis for the book, it seemed like a really cool and interesting paranormal thriller. I thought it would dive more into a mental health awareness type and into maybe something more into ghosts or maybe aliens. As I read it though, it was just completely based around religion. I want to say that there is absolutely nothing wrong with a book with religion in it or being based around it, I however wish it would've disclosed it.

I'm really not a religious person and the entire story was based around four children being chosen with a mission from God to which they would have to figure out what that was. I did think the concept of the island was very creative and cool, but the story just became (in my opinion) nothing but cramming religion and anti-abortion views into a paranormal story. Although they did seem to have issues with the mission of saving a child from being aborted, it still fell along the same lines of convincing someones choice, even though they didn't agree with it. (Note: The person pregnant did say they wanted the child, but there would be complications, it just still had the same connotations to me)

It was slightly disappointing because I felt like the story and the concept could've been more interesting. I'm sure others will like it if they are more religious or have similar beliefs!

I enjoyed the characters, however Tommy became massive red flags for me as he became super possessive of April the more they hung out together and even when dating. It was supposed to come off as protective, but I felt most things came off as for selfish reasoning.

There also is a part of animal violence in the story that doesn't really have any trigger warnings that could potentially benefit some people who are sensitive to it. I was mostly just bothered by the line, "It makes sense in a twisted way; after all, there is a dead cat in his Chinese restaurant parking lot. I'll never be able to eat Chinese again." It just left a really taste in my mouth as it feels like it falls into the nasty racist stereotypes and in my opinion, was not necessary in the story at all.

Overall, I was just disappointed. The writing was done well for the characters, and for the plot she was going for, I just wish it was disclosed more that it is religious novel. The ending also felt a bit more rushed and not as put together as the rest of the book. I genuinely think others will enjoy it as the story premise and writing is good, I just don't think it personally is for me! I'm putting it at 3 stars, it was 2.5-3 stars for me.

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I still don't know what B.O.A.T. stands for ;)

The premise of the book is interesting: it starts off with a mentally unstable main character but unwinds into a supernatural tale. 

I liked the alternating POV between April and TJ, and the back and forth made me as the reader take some more time to discover the truth, which was interesting to read.

I liked our MC April alright in general. She was headstrong and determined to complete the mission. But what I couldn't handle was her I don't know I'm beautiful and I think I'm no one's interest and yet here are two boys fawning over me. I didn't buy the instalove at all. Not from April and not from TJ.

The other POV from TJ, I guess he's also our MC, I have mixed feelings about. Hunky playboy finds April IRL and drops his whole world and long-time girlfriend for this girl and this mission. Yes, the mission is important, but was the mission why he was attracted to April?

The other potential love interest Jim: He was fun. Very upfront about his feelings and intentions, and also doing his best to tick off TJ in the funniest ways. Though, again, was it the supernatural elements that drew him to April so much? 

Adam, April's brother, I just am so angry at. This whole time - THIS WHOLE TIME - his sister was in therapy and was labeled insane - he knew it all was real and wouldn't tell her? 

The mission - VAGUE upon VAGUE. Barely needed 4 people to accomplish, now did it? It wasn't even that difficult to convince the person to keep going. I'm going to leave it at that to not get spoilery, but so much was left out of the why. Why is this person going to be the next chosen one? What greatness will he do? And why did it take a sea creature and 4 young adults to send a message? 

The villain, I mean the devil himself, through actions of corrupted humans, well that was interesting. I want to know what they were trying to stop happening.

The island and the mission itself was an interesting concept. I won't spoil it but other reviews have. Overall I read it quickly, I was engaged and wanted to keep reading, so that counts for something.

3.5 stars

[Aimee · Rating 5 out of 5]

B.O.A.T. is a thought-provoking novel that will take its readers on a fast-paced and captivating journey from page one! The reader in B.O.A.T. will meet the young seventeen-year-old protagonist of the novel, April, who is looking forward to the newfound independence that comes with being a college freshman and is looking forward to leaving her past behind. April’s past, however, continues to dominate her present, April spent her childhood in therapy where she learned that her friends were imaginary but soon in the present she crosses paths with Tommy and Bobby, two people she believed were just imaginary but now they are here and together the trio must embark on a mission that will change everything.

The reader will follow the trio, focusing on April’s and Tommy’s narrative, as they embark on a mission that will come with great danger but one that must be completed to fulfill not only their desire but the fate of the world and what follows is a shocking and brilliant story that shouldn’t be missed, and this book lovers is the short premise of the incredible B.O.A.T.!

Alexandria Pall has managed to write a tale that makes for the perfect and moving adventure for young readers but one that is laced with poignant moments too. Pall’s book is sensational because her tale knows just how to whisk her readers away and take them on an adventure full of ups and downs and many captivating moments! As well as this the descriptions are beautiful and they will correctly place you in the thick of the story, making you imagine every detail as well as making you imagine you are right there with the protagonists of the novel! This, in turn, keeps the reader hooked and turning the pages which is what a reader would want in a novel!

[Ronovan Hester · Rating 4 out of 5]

B.O.A.T is the author debut of Alexandria Pall. Overall it was a good read. If you like Young Adult fiction, which many adults do, and easy to follow wording, then you’ve found your book. By ‘easy to follow wording’ I don’t mean simple, I mean Pall doesn’t try to cram unnecessary words in where simpler is sometimes better. (So King says, well in his own words.)

I’ve read some of the reviews and they mention the religious element of the story. For some that’s a hard no for a read, some say it’s not. Just think of it as a fantasy, supernatural element. You don’t really believe what the story is telling you, but you enjoy reading it because the characters do.

You have three friends... former friends... new friends? We meet our female protagonist, April, first. She’s been led to believe that the voices she’s heard and the imaginary friends she knew means she mentally unstable. Then the doors open, the slow motion begins, flips of hair, and the heavens rain down on her world.

That means those imaginary friends of hers are now on the same campus as she is. Coincidence?

You might find you become attached to supporting cast members and want more of them. That’s up to Pall if she wants to do another book.

The story will lead you one way only to throw you another. Twists, turns, and flips make for an entertaining read.

You can tell this is Pall’s first effort. There are some flow concerns and pacing, but that comes with more writing and an editor who notices those issues. They in no way should keep someone from reading this book for enjoyment. It’s just something I thought I should point out.

I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.

[Tracey Madeley · Rating 3 out of 5]

The idea of heaven as an island where you can leave and enter the physical world is an interesting one. However, it is underdeveloped and the mission is ill-defined and vague in places which makes the driving purpose of the novel unclear. April, Tommy, Bobby and Olivia are quite well-defined and differentiated with good interpersonal relationships. The rivalry between Jim and Tommy adds some drama and conflict to the story. Father Thomas and Harold are part of a secret organisation set up to discover and protect the chosen one, but again their purpose and role are a little vague and therefore they do not present the credible threat they perhaps should do. A stronger antagonist allows more opportunity for conflict, making the story more interesting and dramatic. It also makes the reader more empathetic towards the protagonist, we have a reason to want them to succeed.

The mission is completed but again the detail is a little vague. I appreciate the reader does not need to know every detail, but how victory is secured and a clearer sense of the repercussions of the outcome would have been good. Do April and TJ go on to live normal lives after the completion of their mission? The door is left open for heaven to call on them for future missions. As a debut novel, it is not bad, but it does need more conflict.

[LAWonder10 · Rating 4 out of 5]

While there are many publications involving childhood imaginary friends, in 'B.O.A.T.', a debut by Alexandria Pall, the author puts a unique "twist" on the concept. She blends in the supernatural in creating this new scenario.

The characters were well-developed and felt real. The background scenes were well-portrayed and easily visualized. The paperback book is made with quality paper and is bound well. I feel that the Cover Design and Title were okay but could have been much more eye-catching and captivating.

I had difficulty in the first couple of pages in connecting to the story. However, It was a very interesting and mostly enjoyable read. It is listed as a YA Book but I rated it as an Adult book because of language. Although Youth are exposed to profanity and crude language at school, I do not recommend it be promoted in literature. It is offensive to many cultured and religious individuals. It takes much more expertise to indicate crudeness without actually using crude words.

There were 10-15 "F"-bombs, three times using profanity, plus there were other crude words used. Otherwise, I feel the story was very good.

The ending was done sufficiently, yet left an opening for more books for creating a series.

I offer a Four-Stars literary rating for this book.

This Book was gifted to me with no pressure for a positive review. This is my honest review.

[Octavia · Rating 4 out of 5]

B.O.A.T. by Alexandria Pall is one of those novels that lures you in by the summary and makes sure you're locked in by how the story plays out. With this novel, you get two different points of view, which I didn't like at first. Though when I kept reading, I began to enjoy Tommy's point of view in the same way that I enjoyed April's. I enjoyed the pacing of the novel. It wasn't too fast, nor was it slow enough to become a torture method. Even though I enjoy reading this novel, there were a couple of things that I wasn't too happy about. The first would be the mission itself. Once it's known what the characters have to do, it really wasn't what I was expecting or hoping. It was kind of anticlimactic for me, but I kept reading because of the characters' reactions to the mission, honestly. The other thing I didn't care for was the romantic side of it. Don't get me wrong; I'm all for romance. However, the way that the romantic part played out was a little annoying. It just reminded me of a soap opera, which I wasn't expecting coming from a novel that starts off strong. Other than those two things, I really enjoyed the story and would recommend it to those who like paranormal/mystery novels with a mix of romance. I rate this story 4 out of 5 stars.

[Lily A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

With a striking cover page and a tale that rings so true that it reads like a true story, "B.O.A.T." strikes the right chords. Teen years can be quite turbulent with their vulnerabilities and insecurities, and an illuminating book like this can provide some anchor to stay afloat during these years.
Here, Pall introduces us to seventeen-year-old April, a teenager struggling with mental health issues and fitting in. However, her life takes a whole new turn as the book progresses. Her past clashes with her present and she is forced to confront the past, with an unexpected outcome. Along the way, the author introduces new, characters, who are flawed as well, and who eventually play a key role in April's choices. There is much to mine here and you will find yourself going back to dig up the nuances you may have missed during the first reading. Beyond the complex issues that the author masterfully discusses, is an engrossing tale that will speak to you in more ways than one.
Ultimately, this was a solid debut from an author with a knack for storytelling. I look forward to reading whatever Pall writes next.

[Neicy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captivating

B.O.A.T. unfolds a captivating YA narrative, seamlessly blending mystery, fantasy, and action-adventure. Primarily through April’s perspective, the story reveals her childhood clouded by the belief she's as troubled as her psychiatric files suggest. A dramatic turn occurs when she encounters dream/imaginary friends—Tommy and Bobby—prompting her to face the reality that she, along with Tommy, Bobby, and Olivia, is destined for a greater purpose. Their mission to protect someone from harm leads them to take daring risks, unraveling a gripping mystery.

The narrative gains depth with unexpected allies and foes, while the entertaining love triangles drama involving April, Tommy, Jim, and Penny adds intrigue. The author's skillful writing, rich with vivid details, effortlessly drew me into the story from the outset. I wholeheartedly recommend this modern-day battle between good and evil to YA enthusiasts seeking a gripping tale that maintains suspense throughout. Eagerly anticipating more literary gems from this promising new author.

[Píaras Cíonnaoíth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reality Bends in This Haunting Paranormal Debut...

In this gripping debut novel, Alexandria Pall weaves a supernatural thriller that challenges the boundaries between reality and imagination. Following April, a college freshman haunted by her childhood "imaginary friends," the story takes an extraordinary turn when these supposedly fictional companions materialize in her life. As she grapples with her sanity and newfound purpose, April discovers she's part of something far greater than herself.

Pall masterfully balances intense supernatural elements with authentic explorations of mental health and self-discovery. The dynamic between April, Tommy, and Bobby feels genuine, while the looming threat adds urgency to their mysterious mission. Though some romantic subplots feel predictable, the novel's strength lies in its fresh take on destiny, friendship, and the courage to embrace one's truth. This compelling young adult paranormal thriller marks Pall as an author to watch. Highly recommended.

[Naomi · Rating 4 out of 5]

April is a seemingly normal college freshman. But she has a secret. She's had therapy since she was young because she had imaginary friends. The line between reality and make-believe became blurred. Now, April has moved on. But, her worldview shatters when she bumps into her imaginary friends in real life. And that's just the beginning.

From the get-go, you're lured into this story by the intriguing plot, and it is easy to lose yourself in the world that comes to life on the pages. The writing flows seamlessly, with plenty of twists and turns along the way.

The book is in first person, and we see April's and Tommy's perspective. Initially, we see the story unfold through April's eyes, but when we meet Tommy and Bobby, the point of view flips back and forth. Both characters are written well, and although you may favour one character over the other, both perspectives are interesting to read from.

A captivating read that keeps you hooked.

[Char ღ Denae · Rating 4 out of 5]

A debut novel with a very original story line and unique characters, the B.O.A.T. is a suspenseful, YA, paranormal romance with a heavenly twist.
I really enjoyed this book but I found it a little confusing in places. The plot flowed and the characters were great, I just felt like I needed more detail. That’s not the fault of the book, so much as me investing deeply into the story. The concept of imaginary characters and heaven in this story had me saying, “Whoa!”, and my thoughts were everywhere. It definitely gives you a lot to think about.
I’m really hoping for a sequel since there’s so much that could be done with this idea. It literally could go anywhere and Alexandria Pall has the imagination to make that happen.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Teisha · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not being a spiritual person in the least bit, I tried to push aside the fact that this book sort of dealt with religion. Found that kind of hard to do given that it basically makes the book. But, I have read christian books in the past so I kept reading. I was excited when I read that I won this giveaway. The book sounded interesting so I entered. I wanted/needed to know what would happen a bit more because I can't, not finish a book. The characters felt a bit undeveloped and the conflicts sometimes felt unresolved. It was far from the worst book I have read, but I couldn't help but feel that if I was a Christian I would have enjoyed the book more. Pall's About the Author passage simply reads: Everyone starts somewhere. This is Alexandria Pall's first novel. As someone who has tried but failed to write a book, I really think she can grow as a writer.

[Hannah Barry · Rating 5 out of 5]

It feels wild to me that this is Alexandria Pall's debut novel. It is so beautifully written, replete with accessible language, plot, and characters that teenagers will find exciting.

I really appreciated the focus on mental health and young people becoming empowered by their own experiences--that felt very impactful for me. I think if I had read this book when I was a teenager I would have been deeply moved by its story and the vulnerability the characters show.

Pall is on her way to excellence. I would love to see more YA from this author that is just as engaging and thrilling for young folks to read. And aesthetically, the cover of this book is extremely vivid and eye-catching and I think that was an incredibly wise choice.

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

So many twists

I am not much for super natural or unrealistic stories, but this book has me thinking differently. 3 friends taken on a challenge that seems impossible after years of being apart. As the plot unwinds there are so many twists and turns, you never get lost as with some stories. I felt like I understand April. I had so many emotions as she struggled through the known and unknown, never catching a break. Then comes Tommy and Bobby into her life, Bobby the big brother never being able to blame him for anything. Tommy I wanted to reach out and slap him out of his trance. This definitely a suspenseful read for any teen and up. Young love, college drama and a mystery to solve all wrapped up in one great plot!!

[Angela · Rating 2 out of 5]

Unfortunately, this wasn't the book for me and I DNFed it at 41%. From the blurb, I thought this book was going to be about a young woman's imaginary friends that actually turned out to be real, but that wasn't quite what the book was about. I don't really know how much to say because I don't want to spoil the book for others. I will say, though, that there was a very strong religious aspect to the story that I did not expect. That's not a dealbreaker for me; I just wish I had known about it ahead of time. Overall, I was expecting a certain story, and when the true nature of the story became clearer, it just wasn't something I was interested in continuing. Not the book for me, but I hope this book finds its audience!

I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Jodi · Rating 3 out of 5]

This isn't the type of book I normally read but I did find the premise interesting. Also, because the main character has a history of mental illness there is always the question of what is real and what is a creation of her mind. There were new revelations throughout the book that made me want to keep reading to unravel this puzzle. In fact, this entire book felt like a puzzle (which I love). Instead of just passively reading to find out what happens, I was drawn into the puzzles the characters were trying to solve, trying to figure out what the solutions were, what things meant, what was real or imagined. I wonder if Pall will be writing more about this hidden community?

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Brianna · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book has great promise based on the description, but it fell flat for me when I realized it was a heaven vs devil story with heaven trying to ensure a 'very important person" is born vs the devil wanting to prevent the birth. The setting was a religious university with Father Timothy as the dean, references to church, and while God wasn't specifically used, there was Captain in Heaven.

Trying to look past all the religious components, I was definitely intrigued as to what would happen. I didn't like how Jim and Tommy were enemies being rival schools and tennis. REALLY? I think a more plausible reason would have worked better.

So, am I upset that I read this? No. Would I recommend it to others? Also, no.

[Muskan Lamba · Rating 4 out of 5]

My teenage self would have enjoyed reading this young adult fiction book! The characteristics of 17-year-old April—her dreaminess, fierceness, and willingness to stand out—immerse you in the story.

"B.O.A.T." by Alexandria Pall is a great debut novel—an engaging, fantastical tale with interesting plot twists. It is written in easy-to-read language and features characters that prompt thoughtful reflection. The book explores complex themes such as mental health, conspiracy theories, friendship, and family, but does so in a gentle manner, making it suitable for a diverse set of readers across different ages.

Also, kudos to the gorgeous cover that drew me in!

[Kelly McDonough · Rating 5 out of 5]

Clever! Loved reading April and Tommy's viewpoints--added something different to the plot -- which is filled with plenty of twists and turns readers can keep up with. Skillfully written debut novel. Concept of three friends, Bobby, Tommy and April, coming together to solve a mission of great importance is a refreshing spin to this tale. There is great depth and complexity to this read. I loved how April's imaginary voices come to life. There is a supernatural or paranormal aspect to this story as well as a bit of romance. All in all, a wonderful read for teens and adults alike. I was left wondering what Pall will write next.

[Taylor Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good read!I was captivated immediately and thoroughly enjoyed this book. There are a couple of characters I’d love to have learned more about and would even enjoy a sequel or addition to the series about another character (trying not to drop spoilers). The only thing is the ending felt pretty rushed. At one point I looked at my progress and where I was at in the story and thought there would have to be a sequel. Instead it felt too face paced and rushed to wrap things up, leaving me slightly disappointed.

[Jill Sheets · Rating 5 out of 5]

B.O.A.T Review

Reviewed by Jill Sheets



“B.O.A.T. is a captivating book that held my attention through the whole thing.



I love the plot twist, and the book is well-paced. You do not have to worry about getting lost as you read the book.



"B.O.A.T." is a wonderful read, with well-developed and interesting characters.



This book is a good choice for almost anyone to read.



"B.O.A.T is Alexandria Pall's first novel, and I can not wait to see what she writes next.

[Maheen Zahid · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alexandria Pall's first book, "B.O.A.T.," is really good. It tells an interesting and exciting story with lots of surprises. The language is easy to understand, and the characters make you think. The novel navigates through complex themes such as mental health, conspiracy theories, friendship, and family, all presented in a gentle manner that makes it suitable for readers of diverse ages.

Overall an excellent read, with lots of positive things.

[C.K. Sorens · Rating 3 out of 5]

The guy from your dreams becomes real is one of my favorite guilty pleasure tropes. Where the writing was clean and polished, the structure and character development was not as polished. This book had promise and a good premise, but IMO needed more developmental editing and could have benefited from sensitivity readers regarding mental illness.

I received an ARC copy, and am providing a voluntary review.

[Áine Dougherty · Rating 2 out of 5]

The only reason this isn’t a one star for me is because I read it so fast, and the only reason I read it so fast is because I was on a plane with nothing else to do. I did not enjoy this story. The characters were one dimensional, the plot was full of holes and unnecessary un-realisms, the romance was soooo out of place and distracting, and most of all, the book’s stance on abortion was infuriating.

[Antonia · Rating 3 out of 5]

*I received a free ebook in return for a review from Booksirens*

Not for me. The religious connotations were a bit much for me. As was the low key antiabortion agenda.
The pacing needed work. The ending seemed rush but I also couldn't wait for it as the middle dragged.

Though I did like the 2 POVs and the mystery kept me reading.

[wildwoodreads · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved the idea of this story. I was hoping it would scratch this itch that I have for a good supernatural story. And in that aspect it did. But I couldn’t completely connect with the characters and the pacing felt a bit disjointed. I liked it but I just wanted a little bit more depth.

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.