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Swallowed by a Secret
One dead father.
One lying mother.
After 12-year-old Rocky overhears Mom admit her story about how his dad died is bogus, his trust in his one remaining parent unravels. The for sale sign appears on the front lawn right after the funeral, forcing Rocky to leave the house linked to so many memories of his dad.
Consumed by the secret and struggling to adjust to changing schools mid-year, Rocky is startled by a familiar voice. Dashing into a restroom stall to hide, the voice of his father tells him that the only way to learn the truth is to return to his old town.
Can you take advice from a dead person?
Rocky finds a real partner in a new friend, Olive, who offers to be his assistant sleuth and help him crack the secret and get his life on track. The pair's schemes go bust, but they embolden Rocky to embark on a journey of risks, eavesdropping and snooping to discover the truth about the father he thought he knew.
One lying mother.
After 12-year-old Rocky overhears Mom admit her story about how his dad died is bogus, his trust in his one remaining parent unravels. The for sale sign appears on the front lawn right after the funeral, forcing Rocky to leave the house linked to so many memories of his dad.
Consumed by the secret and struggling to adjust to changing schools mid-year, Rocky is startled by a familiar voice. Dashing into a restroom stall to hide, the voice of his father tells him that the only way to learn the truth is to return to his old town.
Can you take advice from a dead person?
Rocky finds a real partner in a new friend, Olive, who offers to be his assistant sleuth and help him crack the secret and get his life on track. The pair's schemes go bust, but they embolden Rocky to embark on a journey of risks, eavesdropping and snooping to discover the truth about the father he thought he knew.
Audible Audio
Published January 22, 2021
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About the author
Risa Nyman
3 books104 followersBorn in Boston with the accent to prove it, Risa lived within ten miles of that city for decades until a recent move to the neighboring Ocean State.
For many years, Risa worked in a nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting active participation in our democracy, with a special focus on voting and elections.
Risa’s creative writing journey started the day she found three pennies in a neat stack on a windowsill in a completely empty apartment that had belonged to her mother. It’s an interesting story, and there was definitely some magic in those pennies.
When not writing, Risa is reading, exercising or doing therapeutic ironing (yes, there is such a thing.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
April 22, 2020
Risa created such a beautifully written story that immediately drew me in. Because of the age of the main characters, this might be classified as a younger read, but the subject matter is deep and real. I'm not great at reviews and don't want to give anything away, but I will say that, overall, "Swallowed by a Secret" was very well done.
December 26, 2019
Stuck in a new town, in a new school, and a new position on his soccer team, it’s Rocky’s fierce determination to get to the bottom of a family secret that drew me in to Ms. Nyman’s fantastic debut, Swallowed by a Secret.
Risa does an excellent job of ratcheting up the tension as Rocky pursues answers about his father’s death. While I enjoyed the plot, setting, and most of the fleshed out characters, it was Rocky’s spunky girlfriend, Olive, who stole the show. With her comic relief and sarcasm and crazy schemes, she was the perfect counterpart to coax Rocky out of his shell.
A touching story that painfully, yet touchingly describes the lasting effects mental illness causes a family.
Risa does an excellent job of ratcheting up the tension as Rocky pursues answers about his father’s death. While I enjoyed the plot, setting, and most of the fleshed out characters, it was Rocky’s spunky girlfriend, Olive, who stole the show. With her comic relief and sarcasm and crazy schemes, she was the perfect counterpart to coax Rocky out of his shell.
A touching story that painfully, yet touchingly describes the lasting effects mental illness causes a family.
February 9, 2020
I instantly connected with Rocky and loved following the clues and trying to uncover the mystery. I couldn’t put it down and read it in one day. The ending had me in tears. Such a beautiful story and important message for our time.
June 26, 2020
This book had me in tears at multiple points. From the very beginning, I was absolutely drawn in by the strong middle-grade voice. Everything about Rocky was engaging and heartfelt. His best friend Olive was caring, kind, resourceful, and funny. I would encourage my own kids to find friends like Rocky and Olive. As an adult, I began to see hints of the potential answer to the "secret". Without giving any spoilers, know that this book deals with a somewhat heavy, but relevant topic in a beautiful way. I think it has great potential to help middle graders get past stigmas, ask important questions, and find resources for help. I'd absolutely encourage you to read this with your middle graders.
March 25, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this beautiful story. It has deep, meaningful characters and powerful themes. I connected with Rocky from the beginning and loved his relationship with the spunky Olive. I also have a special place in my heart for Max and the tender friendship he develops with Rocky. I'd heard many things about this book, but the mystery kept me guessing and surprised me in the end. Risa Nyman is a masterful writer and I look forward to reading more of her work.
November 23, 2019
12-year-old Rocky starts hearing his dead dad’s voice and decides to look into his father’s suspicious death.
My favorite character was Rocky’s sidekick Olive. She was quirky and interesting and so clever. The story started off with a strong hook. I loved the big reveal at the end. It was not expected and yet it all made sense. I was able to look back on previous clues and weave it all together. The ending was sweet and pure and I left feeling satisfied that this is a good book with a good purpose. I especially loved the last sentence. It gave me the feels.
My favorite character was Rocky’s sidekick Olive. She was quirky and interesting and so clever. The story started off with a strong hook. I loved the big reveal at the end. It was not expected and yet it all made sense. I was able to look back on previous clues and weave it all together. The ending was sweet and pure and I left feeling satisfied that this is a good book with a good purpose. I especially loved the last sentence. It gave me the feels.
February 14, 2020
I was immediately drawn in by realistic characters, believable mystery and relatable struggles of being the new kid. Nearing the end, the story changed and i felt like an agenda was played out. The story was now a vehicle to teach me and i felt robbed. The main characters traits changed, mom was now completely open, grandpa became a totally involved loving guy and the main kid now fully educated. It WAS a good message and I believe the author has the ability to convey the message better, with IN the story.
February 16, 2021
Review by my 12 yr old.
This book is a wonderful story. I loved it so much I couldn't put it down, it was a thrill and adventure. I love how the author writes it makes you hooked from the very beginning.
This book is a wonderful story. I loved it so much I couldn't put it down, it was a thrill and adventure. I love how the author writes it makes you hooked from the very beginning.
September 1, 2020
Well, I wasn't totally prepared for what was inside this book but it still made for a great story. In fact, I was floored might be the right word. I've never read a book quite like this one. Let me say, this story will make you stop and think about it. Just wow! is all I can say.
I don't really want to give anything away but the author has done a fantastic job in bringing her characters to life and gives Rocky the main character a strong voice because this was written from his point of view.
I didn't care for the present tense version but I still appreciated the story for what it was and I learned a lot! I finished it until the end because I wanted to see how Rocky handled his situation. I really admired him. He is my hero.
Kids are stalwart. They even amaze me at times. Especially when certain situations arise at home and in Rocky's case this one. I can't imagine anyone doing that but most especially a parent. But I felt that Rocky with the support of his new friends did amazingly well.
It's never good to keep secrets. Even though we feel like we're protecting the ones we love they do tend to come out in the wash so to speak. And in this story the author does a swell job in portraying this too.
This is geared toward middle graders but really for anyone who wants to read it. Highly recommended
I was NOT required to write a review. All opinion are my own.
I don't really want to give anything away but the author has done a fantastic job in bringing her characters to life and gives Rocky the main character a strong voice because this was written from his point of view.
I didn't care for the present tense version but I still appreciated the story for what it was and I learned a lot! I finished it until the end because I wanted to see how Rocky handled his situation. I really admired him. He is my hero.
Kids are stalwart. They even amaze me at times. Especially when certain situations arise at home and in Rocky's case this one. I can't imagine anyone doing that but most especially a parent. But I felt that Rocky with the support of his new friends did amazingly well.
It's never good to keep secrets. Even though we feel like we're protecting the ones we love they do tend to come out in the wash so to speak. And in this story the author does a swell job in portraying this too.
This is geared toward middle graders but really for anyone who wants to read it. Highly recommended
I was NOT required to write a review. All opinion are my own.
January 20, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book. 😱❤️ Swallowed By A Secret hit me with ALL the feels and I wasn’t expecting it.
Twelve year old Rocky has just lost his Dad and is starting over at a new school in a new home. He overhears his Mom speaking about his Dad’s death and how she hasn’t told him the truth about the details. Rocky makes it his mission to get to the truth. He enlists new friends to help him along the way and all these characters are amazing in their own right.
This one cover so many important topics with some great messages. Did I cry? Yes, yes I did. I didn’t see this coming at all but loved every page. The writing here is so smooth and pulled me in. I read this in one sitting and I was pleasantly surprised with how much I loved it.
Rocky, Olive and Max stole my heart. It’s a heartbreaking - feel good, sad, happy amazing middle grade (tween) read. I recommend this one for everyone though. Really. This ticks all the boxes.
I’m so happy I got to read this special book and I’ll definitely be reading more by the author. ❤️❤️
All the stars.
All the emotions.
All the love.
This book. 😱❤️ Swallowed By A Secret hit me with ALL the feels and I wasn’t expecting it.
Twelve year old Rocky has just lost his Dad and is starting over at a new school in a new home. He overhears his Mom speaking about his Dad’s death and how she hasn’t told him the truth about the details. Rocky makes it his mission to get to the truth. He enlists new friends to help him along the way and all these characters are amazing in their own right.
This one cover so many important topics with some great messages. Did I cry? Yes, yes I did. I didn’t see this coming at all but loved every page. The writing here is so smooth and pulled me in. I read this in one sitting and I was pleasantly surprised with how much I loved it.
Rocky, Olive and Max stole my heart. It’s a heartbreaking - feel good, sad, happy amazing middle grade (tween) read. I recommend this one for everyone though. Really. This ticks all the boxes.
I’m so happy I got to read this special book and I’ll definitely be reading more by the author. ❤️❤️
All the stars.
All the emotions.
All the love.
June 11, 2020
Wow! I did not expect this book to move me as much as it did. It is written with a tone that is geared towards a younger crowd but this book consumed me very much still as an adult middle aged woman. I loved how this book was written with such conviction that you could feel the author's feelings flowing from the words as you read. I was completely enthralled in this read and found myself staying up way late into the night to find out how this story would come to a close. I am glad that I did, that was not wasted sleep or time at all.
Swallowed by a Secret is the story of a young boy named Rocky. He finds his life turned upside down by tragedy and struggling to fit into a new school and town altogether has made the search for answers about his father’s death even more tenuous. I won’t divulge much more than that about the storyline but I will assure you this is one you will want to read and share with your young tween/teen children as well. I know I am, and I look forward to seeing what may come next or is already available by Risa Nyman soon!
Swallowed by a Secret is the story of a young boy named Rocky. He finds his life turned upside down by tragedy and struggling to fit into a new school and town altogether has made the search for answers about his father’s death even more tenuous. I won’t divulge much more than that about the storyline but I will assure you this is one you will want to read and share with your young tween/teen children as well. I know I am, and I look forward to seeing what may come next or is already available by Risa Nyman soon!
June 14, 2020
Wow this is such an emotional story that had me in tears. The characters are so relatable and the relationship between Rocky and Olive is so special. It handles a very sensitive subject in a careful and thoughtful way. And shows that secrets even when kept with good intentions aren't always the right thing to do.
Rocky and his mother move to live with his grandfather after his dad passed away. Rocky's mum told him that his dads heart just stopped but something doesn't ring true to Rocky.
When Rocky starts hearing his dad's voice he is sent on a mission to find out the truth about what really happened.
With the help of Olive then start uncovering the lies his mother and father used to protect him. The outcome is something he never imagined but the truth makes sense.
Rocky and his mother move to live with his grandfather after his dad passed away. Rocky's mum told him that his dads heart just stopped but something doesn't ring true to Rocky.
When Rocky starts hearing his dad's voice he is sent on a mission to find out the truth about what really happened.
With the help of Olive then start uncovering the lies his mother and father used to protect him. The outcome is something he never imagined but the truth makes sense.
September 3, 2020
While I figured out early on what the secret was, Rocky’s path to get there is worth the journey. And it’s appropriate for the intended age of the middle grade reader. It engaging, clean, and deals with some difficult subjects in a subtle manner.
Risa Nyman creates relatable characters like Rocky and his new friend Olive. She’s good for Rocky because of her directness, her willingness to help him out, and her concern for him when it’s required.
Swallowed by a Secret is about family, friendships, and the pain secrets, even when kept with the best of intentions, can cause. But in the end, there is healing, and Rocky is stronger for it.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Risa Nyman creates relatable characters like Rocky and his new friend Olive. She’s good for Rocky because of her directness, her willingness to help him out, and her concern for him when it’s required.
Swallowed by a Secret is about family, friendships, and the pain secrets, even when kept with the best of intentions, can cause. But in the end, there is healing, and Rocky is stronger for it.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
June 13, 2020
12-year-old Rocky is a grief-stricken kid who overhears his mom saying his dad isn’t dead but this sets the kid off to discover the truth as his childhood home is up for sale and that’s the last thing keeping his dad’s memory alive for the kid. Along with losing his dad, Rocky is also adjusting to a new school but his friend, Olive, is along to help him discover the truth about his dad.
The reader goes on a fun ride trying to discover the truth but I enjoyed where this story brought me and what it taught the kids. Great story with lots of twists and turns but very entertaining.
The reader goes on a fun ride trying to discover the truth but I enjoyed where this story brought me and what it taught the kids. Great story with lots of twists and turns but very entertaining.
June 19, 2020
Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman is her debut book and the story of a young boy who has lost his father but all may not be as it seems. The story is engaging and deals with sensitive issues which Risa has done well. This tale evoked emotions from laughter to tears as we struggle along the way and go on this adventure with Rocky and his friend as they look into the mystery of his father’s disappearance. Even though the story is aimed at a younger audience I still found myself invested in the outcome.
June 10, 2020
Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman is an intriguing story that really draws you in.
Rocky is such a loveable character. I found myself completely captivated by him. I really wanted him to find all the answers he was looking for.
This is the first book that I have read by this author and I loved the way she commanded the story. You are so easily taken on the journey with this character. The book is well paced, developed at all the right times. This was a very good book and I am glad I discovered a new author.
Rocky is such a loveable character. I found myself completely captivated by him. I really wanted him to find all the answers he was looking for.
This is the first book that I have read by this author and I loved the way she commanded the story. You are so easily taken on the journey with this character. The book is well paced, developed at all the right times. This was a very good book and I am glad I discovered a new author.
June 13, 2020
Extremely well written. This tale of a teen on a hunt for answers around his father’s death will waken everyone’s inner Nancy Drew or Hardy Boy. Even though I am not the target demographic I was immediately pulled in to the story and connected to the characters. This page turned was great. I look forward to reading more from this author.
May 19, 2020
This was a very engaging and quick moving story that had me laughing out loud in places and wiping tears at the end. The characters are full of life and have lots of great one liners. The theme is timely and relevant to today’s middle grade students and was handled in a sensitive way. Highly recommend!
June 3, 2020
I enjoyed this book. This is my first book by this author and I can’t wait to read more from her. This is a well written story that would be great for any young adult or a middle aged child. I had no issues connecting with the characters. They made the story engaging and kept me turning pages. This is a story about Rocky who overhears his mom tell the truth about what happened to his dad. When she moves him to another city, he finds that the real truth lies in the city he just came from. He meets Olive and together they go on a journey of finding out the truth about his father. He thought he knew him but did he really? I highly recommend this book.
June 6, 2020
This is by first book by Risa Nyman. Max has lost his Dad and has moved to another town. Now he's hearing whisper from the dead. I enjoy Olives and Max connection. This is a beautiful read. I did not expect the ending it was so sweet and endearing.
June 24, 2021
Oh my goodness... what a fantastic book!
My 12 year old is always looking for books that make her "feel something" and Swallowed by a Secret sure did.
It deals with the subject of parental suicide, but somehow finds a way to add just enough comedic relief to keep it from being unbearably heavy. My daughter and I used it for a buddy read, and I highly suggest to take that route, as there are many moments that will lend themselves to a good adult/child conversation.
Overall I found the story very well written, wholesome, emotional and much deeper than one would think a story with an 11 year old protagonist would be! Speaking of 11 year olds... I think the story is spot on in content as well as language use for your average middle grade reader, but even I as an adult thoroughly enjoyed it!
Very well done overall. I have heard rumors of a sequel, and personally, I cannot wait to visit with Rocky again!
My 12 year old is always looking for books that make her "feel something" and Swallowed by a Secret sure did.
It deals with the subject of parental suicide, but somehow finds a way to add just enough comedic relief to keep it from being unbearably heavy. My daughter and I used it for a buddy read, and I highly suggest to take that route, as there are many moments that will lend themselves to a good adult/child conversation.
Overall I found the story very well written, wholesome, emotional and much deeper than one would think a story with an 11 year old protagonist would be! Speaking of 11 year olds... I think the story is spot on in content as well as language use for your average middle grade reader, but even I as an adult thoroughly enjoyed it!
Very well done overall. I have heard rumors of a sequel, and personally, I cannot wait to visit with Rocky again!
June 16, 2020
4 Stars
Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman was such a surprising read- in a great way. It is a highly emotive story aimed at tweenage children (9 – 13), but can also be enjoyed by older readers, like me, too.
Rocky’s life is turned upside down by the death of his father. He and his mother have to move house, and he has a new school to adjust to. But on top of all that, there’s quite a big secret surrounding the death of his father, and that everything he though he knew, may not be true. He is determined to uncover the truth and get to the bottom of it all. And so starts his ‘adventure’. Along with his friend Olive- they set off to unravel the mystery and find the truth.
This is such a relatable story. Rocky and Olive are really wonderful characters. Rocky’s story is very engaging and I was totally invested in the outcome of it all- but I think that Olive really stole the show. She was that extra ingredient that took this story from interesting, to impressive.
The story includes some sensitive and difficult topics- which I think the author handled in a considerate, yet realistic way.
This is definitely worth the read. But, be sure to have some tissues on standby, as you are going to need them.
Thank you, Risa Nyman!
Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman was such a surprising read- in a great way. It is a highly emotive story aimed at tweenage children (9 – 13), but can also be enjoyed by older readers, like me, too.
Rocky’s life is turned upside down by the death of his father. He and his mother have to move house, and he has a new school to adjust to. But on top of all that, there’s quite a big secret surrounding the death of his father, and that everything he though he knew, may not be true. He is determined to uncover the truth and get to the bottom of it all. And so starts his ‘adventure’. Along with his friend Olive- they set off to unravel the mystery and find the truth.
This is such a relatable story. Rocky and Olive are really wonderful characters. Rocky’s story is very engaging and I was totally invested in the outcome of it all- but I think that Olive really stole the show. She was that extra ingredient that took this story from interesting, to impressive.
The story includes some sensitive and difficult topics- which I think the author handled in a considerate, yet realistic way.
This is definitely worth the read. But, be sure to have some tissues on standby, as you are going to need them.
Thank you, Risa Nyman!
July 6, 2020
Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman
5-Stars
Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman was a fast-paced novel that easily pulled me in. I did not expect to get wrapped up in this book like I did. I could not put it down. Rocky was a realistic and likeable kid. He suffered a traumatic event when he lost his dad and that broke my heart. When his dad started talking to him out of nowhere it shook him up. I loved his reaction and felt he did a good job in handling his freak out. Olive, his new friend, was amazing as well. She was unique and I loved that she stepped up to befriend Rocky as the new kid. This was an excellent read and I highly recommend it!
5-Stars
Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman was a fast-paced novel that easily pulled me in. I did not expect to get wrapped up in this book like I did. I could not put it down. Rocky was a realistic and likeable kid. He suffered a traumatic event when he lost his dad and that broke my heart. When his dad started talking to him out of nowhere it shook him up. I loved his reaction and felt he did a good job in handling his freak out. Olive, his new friend, was amazing as well. She was unique and I loved that she stepped up to befriend Rocky as the new kid. This was an excellent read and I highly recommend it!
May 20, 2020
A great story covering a difficult but important topic. I found myself cheering for Rocky and his friend, Olive. This book will undoubtedly help many young readers who encounter mental illness--personally, or with friends and family. Surprisingly effective voice of a young boy from this author. Well done!
April 8, 2021
Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman is a middle aged book with a clever detective story hitting on a very hard topic in a very educational, necessary way.
5/5 stars
Rockys starting at a new middle school in the middle of a school year, just months after his fathers death from his heart stopping, he suspects there is more to it than he’s being told.
I don’t think I’ve read a book where a female author takes on the challenging mind of a 12 year old boy. Risa made it seem very natural, and very real. She did a really good job with what I’m assuming was a challenging perspective to write. Olive was so entertaining and so lively, I absolutely loved her.
The plot of this book is very moving. As I mentioned, it deals with a very difficult topic in a very educational and in a way that the demographic this book was meant for, could definitely stop the stigma.
The writing style was very engaging and very well done. I really appreciate this book. Well done!
🚨trigger warning (spoiler)🚨
This book deals with mental health. It also does deal with suicide
#bookstagram #books #bookworm #book #bookish #reading #booklover #bibliophile #booknerd #booksofinstagram #read #bookaddict #bookstagrammer #igreads #bookshelf #bookaholic #love #bookclub #booklove #reader #bookphotography #instabook #author #writersofinstagram #bookblogger #readersofinstagram #goodreads #instagood #writer #instabooks
5/5 stars
Rockys starting at a new middle school in the middle of a school year, just months after his fathers death from his heart stopping, he suspects there is more to it than he’s being told.
I don’t think I’ve read a book where a female author takes on the challenging mind of a 12 year old boy. Risa made it seem very natural, and very real. She did a really good job with what I’m assuming was a challenging perspective to write. Olive was so entertaining and so lively, I absolutely loved her.
The plot of this book is very moving. As I mentioned, it deals with a very difficult topic in a very educational and in a way that the demographic this book was meant for, could definitely stop the stigma.
The writing style was very engaging and very well done. I really appreciate this book. Well done!
🚨trigger warning (spoiler)🚨
This book deals with mental health. It also does deal with suicide
#bookstagram #books #bookworm #book #bookish #reading #booklover #bibliophile #booknerd #booksofinstagram #read #bookaddict #bookstagrammer #igreads #bookshelf #bookaholic #love #bookclub #booklove #reader #bookphotography #instabook #author #writersofinstagram #bookblogger #readersofinstagram #goodreads #instagood #writer #instabooks
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2021
Fun Middle Grade Mystery 4.5⭐
This was a really clean and fun middle grade mystery! My 11 year old son read this book and loved it too. My only warning with this one is there is some light discussions regarding suicide; however, it is tastefully done and the overall mood of the book is not really depressing. It's a great book to segway into the topic of suicide and getting the proper help for friends or yourself. The narrator did a great job and was fun to listen to.
—I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
This was a really clean and fun middle grade mystery! My 11 year old son read this book and loved it too. My only warning with this one is there is some light discussions regarding suicide; however, it is tastefully done and the overall mood of the book is not really depressing. It's a great book to segway into the topic of suicide and getting the proper help for friends or yourself. The narrator did a great job and was fun to listen to.
—I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
June 16, 2020
Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman
5 +++++++ Stars
I got very little sleep last night because of this book. I just wanted to start it so that when I got up this morning I could jump in having already begun. NOPE, I literally read the whole thing, I could not put it down. This is my first ever read by this author, and I think my first middle grade book ever, I'd have to double check that but I am telling you right now..Trust me on this, I don't care how old you are this was an outstanding book. The writing was phenomenal which is why I couldn't put it down. Then I fell asleep sniffling because I bawled at the end.
I just wanted to jump in the book and hug Rocky so many times, I also wanted to play his chauffeur and wanted so badly to jump in the middle of his and Olive’s plans. Olive scared me at first, I wasn't sure, but she turned out to be exactly what I'd hoped for. Then there was Max, again he scared me, but his character has given me hope that maybe there will be more? My heart also broke for Mom once I finally understood everything that was going on. I can't even imagine!
Run, don't walk and grab this book. It really is amazing, and I will be getting copies for my older grandchildren who I know would love it as much as I did.
5 +++++++ Stars
I got very little sleep last night because of this book. I just wanted to start it so that when I got up this morning I could jump in having already begun. NOPE, I literally read the whole thing, I could not put it down. This is my first ever read by this author, and I think my first middle grade book ever, I'd have to double check that but I am telling you right now..Trust me on this, I don't care how old you are this was an outstanding book. The writing was phenomenal which is why I couldn't put it down. Then I fell asleep sniffling because I bawled at the end.
I just wanted to jump in the book and hug Rocky so many times, I also wanted to play his chauffeur and wanted so badly to jump in the middle of his and Olive’s plans. Olive scared me at first, I wasn't sure, but she turned out to be exactly what I'd hoped for. Then there was Max, again he scared me, but his character has given me hope that maybe there will be more? My heart also broke for Mom once I finally understood everything that was going on. I can't even imagine!
Run, don't walk and grab this book. It really is amazing, and I will be getting copies for my older grandchildren who I know would love it as much as I did.
June 3, 2020
Swallowed by a Secret
By Risa Nyman
5 out of 5 stars
The story Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman is a book that I enjoyed reading. I found myself quickly drawn into the storyline and didn’t want to put it down until I had finished the final page. It is the story of 12-year-old Rocky whose father has died. He finds himself changing homes and schools which both take time to adjust to. He doesn’t believe that his mother has told him all about how his father passed away. He becomes determined to find out the truth. With the help of a new friend, Olive, Rocky sets out to find the secret. How far is Rocky ready to go to find out the truth? Will it mean that Rocky has to take risks to discover the truth? Read this book to find out. This is a story that I found to have sad moments and I couldn’t help but empathize with Rocky and how he feels. Olive is a wonderful character and she is as determined to help Rocky. She is a good friend to him. The book has heartbreaking and heartwarming moments as well. It is a story that is also emotional at times. The author has written a story that is unforgettable and will touch your heart. I highly recommend reading it.
By Risa Nyman
5 out of 5 stars
The story Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman is a book that I enjoyed reading. I found myself quickly drawn into the storyline and didn’t want to put it down until I had finished the final page. It is the story of 12-year-old Rocky whose father has died. He finds himself changing homes and schools which both take time to adjust to. He doesn’t believe that his mother has told him all about how his father passed away. He becomes determined to find out the truth. With the help of a new friend, Olive, Rocky sets out to find the secret. How far is Rocky ready to go to find out the truth? Will it mean that Rocky has to take risks to discover the truth? Read this book to find out. This is a story that I found to have sad moments and I couldn’t help but empathize with Rocky and how he feels. Olive is a wonderful character and she is as determined to help Rocky. She is a good friend to him. The book has heartbreaking and heartwarming moments as well. It is a story that is also emotional at times. The author has written a story that is unforgettable and will touch your heart. I highly recommend reading it.
June 18, 2020
“One dead father. One lying mother”. Twelve year old Rocky overheard his Mum admit that the story she had told him of his fathers death was a lie. Rocky does not know how he can trust her following that revelation. Then soon after his fathers funeral a ‘For-Sale’ sign appears in front of their house, a house full of memories of his dad. Having moved house and having to start at a new school, Rocky suddenly hears the voice of his father, who is insisting that he return to his old town for answers, but can you take advice from a dead person? Rocky then makes a new friend in Olive who offers to be Rocky’s assistant sleuth and help him discover the truth. Rocky and Olive then go on a journey of risks, eavesdropping and snooping all to discover the truth about his father and find out why his mother lied. This is a contemporary mystery with an interesting storyline and great characters in Rocky and Olive. Both of the main characters were likeable and relatable and I loved how their relationship developed throughout the book. It had me hooked from the start and I found it an emotional story, and one I felt fully immersed in whilst reading.
June 17, 2020
Swallowed by a Secret is the first book I've read by Risa Nyman. I really enjoyed it, and while it's listed as a childrens book, I would say preteen. The book has a bit of mystery, that is not revealed until the very end. You can speculate all you want, but most people won't guess the answer. The characters in the book are well written and the friendships developed are strong. The feelings of the book are realistic and would be good for any child experiencing a loss. It helps them make sense of their feelings and understand everyone goes through some heavy things in life.
The book is about Rocky, a 12 year old boy whose dad recently passed away. He was told from heart issues, but he doesn't believe that. His mom makes them suddenly packup and move, right after the funeral. He has overheard pieces of conversation indicating his mom is hiding the details surrounding his father's death. To make matters worse, he started hearing his dad's voice. At first he is terrified, but then finds comfort in it. He has his new friend Olive start scheming ways to find out the truth.
The book is about Rocky, a 12 year old boy whose dad recently passed away. He was told from heart issues, but he doesn't believe that. His mom makes them suddenly packup and move, right after the funeral. He has overheard pieces of conversation indicating his mom is hiding the details surrounding his father's death. To make matters worse, he started hearing his dad's voice. At first he is terrified, but then finds comfort in it. He has his new friend Olive start scheming ways to find out the truth.
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