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Where the Sweet Vines Grow
There are three rules to keep from going missing in
Trust no one.
Don't go anywhere alone.
Be home before dark.
Willow breaks all three the moment she arrives.
After a messy breakup, sixteen-year-old Willow is sent to live with her father in Modesto, California. But her new home is no safe haven.
Restless and desperate for connection, Willow finds herself caught between the fragile safety of new friends and a budding romance with Roman Sullivan—the charming, rumor-shrouded baseball star.
As girls begin to disappear and suspicion creeps closer to Roman, Willow must navigate the blurred line between desire and danger.
In a town built on secrets, she'll learn that loneliness doesn't just make you visible,it makes you an easy target.
Perfect for fans of A Good Girl's Guide to Murder and One of Us Is Lying, Where the Sweet Vines Grow is a haunting psychological suspense about obsession, girlhood, and the devastating cost of misplaced trust.
Trust no one.
Don't go anywhere alone.
Be home before dark.
Willow breaks all three the moment she arrives.
After a messy breakup, sixteen-year-old Willow is sent to live with her father in Modesto, California. But her new home is no safe haven.
Restless and desperate for connection, Willow finds herself caught between the fragile safety of new friends and a budding romance with Roman Sullivan—the charming, rumor-shrouded baseball star.
As girls begin to disappear and suspicion creeps closer to Roman, Willow must navigate the blurred line between desire and danger.
In a town built on secrets, she'll learn that loneliness doesn't just make you visible,it makes you an easy target.
Perfect for fans of A Good Girl's Guide to Murder and One of Us Is Lying, Where the Sweet Vines Grow is a haunting psychological suspense about obsession, girlhood, and the devastating cost of misplaced trust.
325 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 30, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
May 19, 2026
I received a complimentary ARC of this debut novel to read and review. All opinions expressed are solely my own. A big thanks to the author for a copy of the ARC.
This was a riveting read! This book kept me on my toes and had my heart palpitating in suspense. And I mean, come on. That ending, though, WHAT!?
Willow Alves is a high school girl, newly relocated to Modesto. She makes friends fairly quickly, and even has her eye on bad-boy Roman Sullivan. What she doesn’t know is why some girls in Modesto have recently disappeared. Thus the reading reveals.
The book explores some major themes including alcoholism, human trafficking, and mental health. I was thankful there was a content warning at the beginning of the book. I enjoyed the pacing of the book and the descriptions and dialogue were good. The only slight hiccup for me was the changing POV that started mid way through the book. It just threw me off the first time, as I was so used to reading Willow’s perspective.
I thought the characters felt very realistic, especially the parents. I felt both of Willow’s parents’ struggles as well as their love for Willow. On that note, and on the note of relationships, I also had a great appreciation the emphasis towards the end of the book of the role of continued mental health.
Overall, this was a great read, and would recommend for readers looking for a fast-paced thriller, noting the seriousness and heaviness of some of the themes.
I am glad I got to read this book!
This was a riveting read! This book kept me on my toes and had my heart palpitating in suspense. And I mean, come on. That ending, though, WHAT!?
Willow Alves is a high school girl, newly relocated to Modesto. She makes friends fairly quickly, and even has her eye on bad-boy Roman Sullivan. What she doesn’t know is why some girls in Modesto have recently disappeared. Thus the reading reveals.
The book explores some major themes including alcoholism, human trafficking, and mental health. I was thankful there was a content warning at the beginning of the book. I enjoyed the pacing of the book and the descriptions and dialogue were good. The only slight hiccup for me was the changing POV that started mid way through the book. It just threw me off the first time, as I was so used to reading Willow’s perspective.
I thought the characters felt very realistic, especially the parents. I felt both of Willow’s parents’ struggles as well as their love for Willow. On that note, and on the note of relationships, I also had a great appreciation the emphasis towards the end of the book of the role of continued mental health.
Overall, this was a great read, and would recommend for readers looking for a fast-paced thriller, noting the seriousness and heaviness of some of the themes.
I am glad I got to read this book!
July 24, 2026
This was fantastic! This is a haunting story I thought about for awhile after reading it. The suspense buildup is masterfully done and I was hooked start to finish. I would recommend this! Special Thank You to Sadie Sloan, Tanager Court Press and Netgalley for allowing me to read a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 18, 2026
Hmm... I might be the first person to give this novel 2 stars on Goodreads. At this point, I feel like I must have read a completely different book than everyone else.
Anyone who knows me knows that I L.O.V.E. mystery thrillers. They're usually my favorite genre, and I can easily devour one in a single sitting. Unfortunately, that wasn't the case with Where the Sweet Vines Grow. It took me two days to finish—not because it's long, but because every time I put it down, I had little desire to pick it back up. Even when I did have it in my hands, I struggled to stay interested. I honestly lost count of how many times I rolled my eyes while reading.
So... where did it go wrong?
For me, the biggest issue was how heavily the story leaned on familiar thriller clichés. You know the ones: "My gut tells me something is wrong... but I'm going in anyway." Add in the endlessly creaking door hinges, scraping chairs, mysterious metallic clinks, and ominous footsteps, and it all started to feel a little too familiar. Speaking of "metallic," the author really loves that word. I started highlighting every time it appeared for fun. At one point, it was used to describe a sound. Maybe it's just me, but I found myself wondering... what exactly does a metallic sound sound like?
Throughout most of the novel, the writing felt like it was only skimming the surface. The only section that carried real emotional weight was when Willow was taken. Outside of that, I never felt fully immersed. The pacing also felt disjointed, almost like watching a movie with abrupt cuts between scenes instead of smooth transitions.
Even near the end, when the story briefly touches on Willow's mental health after everything she endured, it felt more like a passing mention than something meaningfully explored. The book simply acknowledged it and moved on before ending. I had a similar reaction to the prologue. It seemed to introduce another layer to a character, only to stop just as it became interesting. Maybe it's setting up a sequel, or maybe it was simply another abrupt cut.
I also struggled to connect with the characters. I understand the author was trying to make everyone seem suspicious and untrustworthy, but the execution didn't quite work for me. Instead, it felt like nearly every character was giving Willow the side-eye for the entire novel, which became more repetitive than suspenseful.
I rarely pick apart a book this much, and honestly, I feel a little bad doing it. At the end of the day, though, this review reflects my reading experience, and I want to be honest about it. Not every book works for every reader, and this one simply didn't work for me.
That said, I do want to give credit where it's due. I appreciated the reader discretion provided at the beginning of the book. For stories that tackle heavy subjects, trigger warnings are thoughtful, helpful, and always appreciated.
Thank you to Tanager Court Press via NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Anyone who knows me knows that I L.O.V.E. mystery thrillers. They're usually my favorite genre, and I can easily devour one in a single sitting. Unfortunately, that wasn't the case with Where the Sweet Vines Grow. It took me two days to finish—not because it's long, but because every time I put it down, I had little desire to pick it back up. Even when I did have it in my hands, I struggled to stay interested. I honestly lost count of how many times I rolled my eyes while reading.
So... where did it go wrong?
For me, the biggest issue was how heavily the story leaned on familiar thriller clichés. You know the ones: "My gut tells me something is wrong... but I'm going in anyway." Add in the endlessly creaking door hinges, scraping chairs, mysterious metallic clinks, and ominous footsteps, and it all started to feel a little too familiar. Speaking of "metallic," the author really loves that word. I started highlighting every time it appeared for fun. At one point, it was used to describe a sound. Maybe it's just me, but I found myself wondering... what exactly does a metallic sound sound like?
Throughout most of the novel, the writing felt like it was only skimming the surface. The only section that carried real emotional weight was when Willow was taken. Outside of that, I never felt fully immersed. The pacing also felt disjointed, almost like watching a movie with abrupt cuts between scenes instead of smooth transitions.
Even near the end, when the story briefly touches on Willow's mental health after everything she endured, it felt more like a passing mention than something meaningfully explored. The book simply acknowledged it and moved on before ending. I had a similar reaction to the prologue. It seemed to introduce another layer to a character, only to stop just as it became interesting. Maybe it's setting up a sequel, or maybe it was simply another abrupt cut.
I also struggled to connect with the characters. I understand the author was trying to make everyone seem suspicious and untrustworthy, but the execution didn't quite work for me. Instead, it felt like nearly every character was giving Willow the side-eye for the entire novel, which became more repetitive than suspenseful.
I rarely pick apart a book this much, and honestly, I feel a little bad doing it. At the end of the day, though, this review reflects my reading experience, and I want to be honest about it. Not every book works for every reader, and this one simply didn't work for me.
That said, I do want to give credit where it's due. I appreciated the reader discretion provided at the beginning of the book. For stories that tackle heavy subjects, trigger warnings are thoughtful, helpful, and always appreciated.
Thank you to Tanager Court Press via NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy
If you're looking for a thriller that hooks you from page one, Where the Sweet Vines Grow absolutely delivers. The story wastes no time introducing a chilling mystery involving missing girls, suspicious townspeople, and a community hiding more than it reveals. Every chapter ends with just enough intrigue to make you want to keep reading long into the night.
I enjoyed the small-town setting. Modesto feels like a character in its own right, quiet on the surface but packed with secrets underneath. The constant feeling that someone is watching, combined with rumors surrounding the Sullivan family and the town’s dark history, creates a delicious sense of paranoia. I found myself questioning nearly every character's motives.
The pacing is excellent, balancing character moments with suspenseful twists. The author does a great job of planting clues without making the mystery predictable. Fans of YA and new adult thrillers will appreciate the combination of romance, danger, and psychological tension. This is the kind of book that keeps readers turning pages and second-guessing everything they think they know.
I enjoyed the small-town setting. Modesto feels like a character in its own right, quiet on the surface but packed with secrets underneath. The constant feeling that someone is watching, combined with rumors surrounding the Sullivan family and the town’s dark history, creates a delicious sense of paranoia. I found myself questioning nearly every character's motives.
The pacing is excellent, balancing character moments with suspenseful twists. The author does a great job of planting clues without making the mystery predictable. Fans of YA and new adult thrillers will appreciate the combination of romance, danger, and psychological tension. This is the kind of book that keeps readers turning pages and second-guessing everything they think they know.
Review of advance copy received from Author
There is something more genuinely threatening in a Psychological Thriller when the victims are kids and teenagers than when they are adults.
There is always a terrifying edge when such a book goes into the mind of an assailant and their traumatized victim. Many characters and readers wonder why this happened and what in their youth could have happened that created this situation. Somehow the wondering becomes sharper when this situation happens to a young character who hasn't even reached their twenties.
That is what happens in Where The Sweet Vines Grow, Sadie Sloan’s ominous and plutonian psychological thriller about a series of kidnapped teen girls, the perpetrators behind the abductions, and the trauma that is inflicted.
Willow Alves moves from her mother's home to her father's dairy farm in Modesto. She is introduced to Julian and Roman Sullivan, heirs to the Sweet Vine Winery and the wealthiest family in the area. She is attracted to the charming Roman Sullivan who has had an active love life. While out on a date with Roman, Willow becomes the victim of a serious crime.
The book pulls no punches in describing how a young girl can be made vulnerable by the manipulations and intentions of those around her. The conflict between Willow and her perpetrators are that of appearance and reality, deception and truth, maturity and innocence, predator and victim. It's also a metaphor of the conflicts between men and women and how they are shaped by the society around them.
The teen years are a time of experimentation and raw emotions because brains haven't fully developed. That doesn't occur until they reach their early twenties. This is among the many reasons that 18 and 21 are considered the legal adult age.
They are hormonal, emotional, argumentative, surly, vulnerable, arrogant, self-centered, immature and hopelessly naive. This age span makes them easily susceptible to manipulative tactics that predators use. The tactics could be used to turn them into predators, prey, or both.
Willow is an example of such a teen. She has had a difficult home life: divorced parents, an alcoholic mother abdicating responsibility, and a loving but distant and overwhelmed father. She also had a previous relationship with a 22 year old at age 16, so her history of toxic relationships is apparent. She is the type of kid who is stressed and looking to belong and be accepted.
Willow makes some new friends like Craig, a nice guy who flirts with her but accepts the friend zone and Tangy, a saucy mouthy girl who has her own reasons for disliking the Sullivans. Willow feels safe around them but she is drawn to Roman Sullivan.
Roman is charming, charismatic, and the typical popular rich athletic kid. He is somewhat full of himself but is the type of guy that girls can't resist. He has had several girlfriends in the past and while that is a source of gossip, no one pays much attention to his love life.
There is the difference between Willow and Roman that is found all over the book. Willow had one previous relationship when she was certainly too young to weigh options to give serious informed consent. This aftermath leads to a rupture in her family and separation. It becomes part of her identity and is the source of gossip at her new home and school.
Roman however has had several romances, some with girls who no longer live in Modesto. Something serious must have happened to them since they are no longer here to defend themselves. While he is considered suspicious particularly by Tangie and Willow's father, nothing happens to him except the occasional rumor and gossip.
In fact, Roman’s reputation makes him more alluring while Willow’s wards people off. Willow and Roman’s reputations are microcosms of how men can get away with being open about their sexuality but women are held under scrutiny if they are not as pure as the driven snow.
One of the eeriest things that occur throughout the book is that Willow is left unprepared when she is a victim of a serious crime. She is told what to wear, how to behave, not to drink too much, not to be too open, not to reveal too much, and who to stay away from. The type of advice that many women are told and then victim blamed for if they are attacked.
What this advice fails to recognize is that many perpetrators don't need or require such patterns to attack. If they want someone, they will take them. It won't matter what their victims wear or how they behave. If the perpetrator is skilled just like in this book, they will find a way in. Also as long as the victim is blamed for their behavior, the perpetrator or perpetrators will find other means to capture them and probably get away with it too.
The book has some interesting twists that challenge the perceptions in this book over who is guilty and who is innocent, how involved people are in crime, what is often condemned and what is ignored. The final chapters make some chilling observations.
If these crimes continue with other faces and other names without condemnation is the whole system corrupt and complicit in allowing them to continue? Are our perceptions of males and females to blame in creating predators and prey and are they shaped by the exposure towards those perceptions in our youth?
There is always a terrifying edge when such a book goes into the mind of an assailant and their traumatized victim. Many characters and readers wonder why this happened and what in their youth could have happened that created this situation. Somehow the wondering becomes sharper when this situation happens to a young character who hasn't even reached their twenties.
That is what happens in Where The Sweet Vines Grow, Sadie Sloan’s ominous and plutonian psychological thriller about a series of kidnapped teen girls, the perpetrators behind the abductions, and the trauma that is inflicted.
Willow Alves moves from her mother's home to her father's dairy farm in Modesto. She is introduced to Julian and Roman Sullivan, heirs to the Sweet Vine Winery and the wealthiest family in the area. She is attracted to the charming Roman Sullivan who has had an active love life. While out on a date with Roman, Willow becomes the victim of a serious crime.
The book pulls no punches in describing how a young girl can be made vulnerable by the manipulations and intentions of those around her. The conflict between Willow and her perpetrators are that of appearance and reality, deception and truth, maturity and innocence, predator and victim. It's also a metaphor of the conflicts between men and women and how they are shaped by the society around them.
The teen years are a time of experimentation and raw emotions because brains haven't fully developed. That doesn't occur until they reach their early twenties. This is among the many reasons that 18 and 21 are considered the legal adult age.
They are hormonal, emotional, argumentative, surly, vulnerable, arrogant, self-centered, immature and hopelessly naive. This age span makes them easily susceptible to manipulative tactics that predators use. The tactics could be used to turn them into predators, prey, or both.
Willow is an example of such a teen. She has had a difficult home life: divorced parents, an alcoholic mother abdicating responsibility, and a loving but distant and overwhelmed father. She also had a previous relationship with a 22 year old at age 16, so her history of toxic relationships is apparent. She is the type of kid who is stressed and looking to belong and be accepted.
Willow makes some new friends like Craig, a nice guy who flirts with her but accepts the friend zone and Tangy, a saucy mouthy girl who has her own reasons for disliking the Sullivans. Willow feels safe around them but she is drawn to Roman Sullivan.
Roman is charming, charismatic, and the typical popular rich athletic kid. He is somewhat full of himself but is the type of guy that girls can't resist. He has had several girlfriends in the past and while that is a source of gossip, no one pays much attention to his love life.
There is the difference between Willow and Roman that is found all over the book. Willow had one previous relationship when she was certainly too young to weigh options to give serious informed consent. This aftermath leads to a rupture in her family and separation. It becomes part of her identity and is the source of gossip at her new home and school.
Roman however has had several romances, some with girls who no longer live in Modesto. Something serious must have happened to them since they are no longer here to defend themselves. While he is considered suspicious particularly by Tangie and Willow's father, nothing happens to him except the occasional rumor and gossip.
In fact, Roman’s reputation makes him more alluring while Willow’s wards people off. Willow and Roman’s reputations are microcosms of how men can get away with being open about their sexuality but women are held under scrutiny if they are not as pure as the driven snow.
One of the eeriest things that occur throughout the book is that Willow is left unprepared when she is a victim of a serious crime. She is told what to wear, how to behave, not to drink too much, not to be too open, not to reveal too much, and who to stay away from. The type of advice that many women are told and then victim blamed for if they are attacked.
What this advice fails to recognize is that many perpetrators don't need or require such patterns to attack. If they want someone, they will take them. It won't matter what their victims wear or how they behave. If the perpetrator is skilled just like in this book, they will find a way in. Also as long as the victim is blamed for their behavior, the perpetrator or perpetrators will find other means to capture them and probably get away with it too.
The book has some interesting twists that challenge the perceptions in this book over who is guilty and who is innocent, how involved people are in crime, what is often condemned and what is ignored. The final chapters make some chilling observations.
If these crimes continue with other faces and other names without condemnation is the whole system corrupt and complicit in allowing them to continue? Are our perceptions of males and females to blame in creating predators and prey and are they shaped by the exposure towards those perceptions in our youth?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is the kind of book that sinks its roots into you early and refuses to let go. Even though I guessed where things were heading fairly quickly and the formatting occasionally drove me a little crazy, I still ended up flying through this one. The story was compelling, the atmosphere was unsettling in all the right ways, and the themes it explores feel painfully relevant in today's climate. I gave this one 4 stars.
At its core, this is a story about loneliness, vulnerability, and the dangerous things that can happen when we’re desperate to feel seen. Sixteen-year-old Willow is sent to live with her father in Modesto, California after a difficult breakup leaves her reeling. Already feeling uprooted and isolated, she finds herself trying to navigate a completely new life, new school, new friendships, and the complicated emotions that come with starting over.
Willow was a character I found easy to connect with. She’s hurting, searching for belonging, and trying to figure out who she is when everything familiar has been stripped away. That emotional vulnerability is what makes her journey so compelling—and so heartbreaking at times. Watching her try to balance her instincts against her desire for connection created a constant tension throughout the story.
Then there’s Roman Sullivan, the town’s golden boy baseball star. Roman is charming, magnetic, and surrounded by rumors that seem impossible to ignore. Sloan does an excellent job of keeping both Willow and the reader questioning what’s real and what’s perception. Roman’s presence looms over much of the story, creating a constant undercurrent of unease even during the sweeter moments.
The supporting cast adds another layer to the novel. Willow’s new friends offer glimpses of safety and belonging, but nobody in this town feels entirely trustworthy. As girls continue to disappear and suspicion spreads through the community, every interaction feels loaded with questions. The small-town atmosphere is incredibly effective here. Secrets seem to seep from every corner, and the feeling that something is deeply wrong never fully goes away.
What stood out to me most wasn’t the mystery itself, though that certainly kept me turning pages. It was the examination of teen love and how easily it can consume someone before they realize the damage being done. Sloan captures that dangerous intersection of desire, validation, and obsession with unsettling accuracy. Young love is often romanticized, but this story isn’t afraid to explore the darker side of wanting to be chosen so badly that you ignore the warning signs.
One quote perfectly captures that theme:
“He said I was a country he wanted to conquer. I miss him sometimes. That’s the worst part. Because even now, I can’t always tell the difference between being chosen and being hunted.”
That line alone tells you so much about what this book is really trying to say.
Where the Sweet Vines Grow is less about solving a mystery and more about understanding how manipulation works, how predators hide behind charm, and how loneliness can make even the smartest people vulnerable. It’s haunting because it feels real. The situations may be fictional, but the emotions and dangers woven throughout the story are very much grounded in reality.
Even when I thought I knew where the story was heading, I remained completely invested in how it would get there. The tension never let up, and the emotional weight behind Willow’s journey kept me turning pages long after I should have gone to bed.
This is an important story wrapped in the framework of a psychological suspense novel. It’s unsettling, heartbreaking, and unfortunately relevant. In today’s world, it’s a reminder that you never truly know who someone is beneath the version they choose to show you.
“I wish someone had told us what to do if someone took our choice away.”
*Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, Tanager Court Press, for sharing this eARC with me in exchange for my honest opinion. This review is based off of an uncorrected proof which did not sway my opinion either way. Be sure to pick this one up when it's released on June 30th!
At its core, this is a story about loneliness, vulnerability, and the dangerous things that can happen when we’re desperate to feel seen. Sixteen-year-old Willow is sent to live with her father in Modesto, California after a difficult breakup leaves her reeling. Already feeling uprooted and isolated, she finds herself trying to navigate a completely new life, new school, new friendships, and the complicated emotions that come with starting over.
Willow was a character I found easy to connect with. She’s hurting, searching for belonging, and trying to figure out who she is when everything familiar has been stripped away. That emotional vulnerability is what makes her journey so compelling—and so heartbreaking at times. Watching her try to balance her instincts against her desire for connection created a constant tension throughout the story.
Then there’s Roman Sullivan, the town’s golden boy baseball star. Roman is charming, magnetic, and surrounded by rumors that seem impossible to ignore. Sloan does an excellent job of keeping both Willow and the reader questioning what’s real and what’s perception. Roman’s presence looms over much of the story, creating a constant undercurrent of unease even during the sweeter moments.
The supporting cast adds another layer to the novel. Willow’s new friends offer glimpses of safety and belonging, but nobody in this town feels entirely trustworthy. As girls continue to disappear and suspicion spreads through the community, every interaction feels loaded with questions. The small-town atmosphere is incredibly effective here. Secrets seem to seep from every corner, and the feeling that something is deeply wrong never fully goes away.
What stood out to me most wasn’t the mystery itself, though that certainly kept me turning pages. It was the examination of teen love and how easily it can consume someone before they realize the damage being done. Sloan captures that dangerous intersection of desire, validation, and obsession with unsettling accuracy. Young love is often romanticized, but this story isn’t afraid to explore the darker side of wanting to be chosen so badly that you ignore the warning signs.
One quote perfectly captures that theme:
“He said I was a country he wanted to conquer. I miss him sometimes. That’s the worst part. Because even now, I can’t always tell the difference between being chosen and being hunted.”
That line alone tells you so much about what this book is really trying to say.
Where the Sweet Vines Grow is less about solving a mystery and more about understanding how manipulation works, how predators hide behind charm, and how loneliness can make even the smartest people vulnerable. It’s haunting because it feels real. The situations may be fictional, but the emotions and dangers woven throughout the story are very much grounded in reality.
Even when I thought I knew where the story was heading, I remained completely invested in how it would get there. The tension never let up, and the emotional weight behind Willow’s journey kept me turning pages long after I should have gone to bed.
This is an important story wrapped in the framework of a psychological suspense novel. It’s unsettling, heartbreaking, and unfortunately relevant. In today’s world, it’s a reminder that you never truly know who someone is beneath the version they choose to show you.
“I wish someone had told us what to do if someone took our choice away.”
*Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, Tanager Court Press, for sharing this eARC with me in exchange for my honest opinion. This review is based off of an uncorrected proof which did not sway my opinion either way. Be sure to pick this one up when it's released on June 30th!
July 1, 2026
‘That’s the thing about attention: it fills you fast, but it burns out even faster and I could already feel myself wanting the next hit’
A small town. Multiple missing young girls. And a teenager willing to push the boundaries of her parents and find out more about the new town she has moved to as well as its residents … with devastating results.
There are three rules in Modesta - trust no one, don’t go anywhere alone and be home before dark. Willow breaks all three the moment she arrives. Willow has been sent to live with her father, Frank, but the new town is no safe haven. Restless and desperate for connection, Willow finds herself caught between the safety of new friends and a budding romance with Roman Sullivan.
Roman Sullivan and the rest of his family are bad news. They own the local Winery ‘The Sweet Vines’ and hold a lot of power in the town. Willow finds herself drawn to Roman, the younger of the two brothers. Despite her inner thoughts telling her that there are red flags, he is charming and able to push these concerns down. During a dinner at their home, an incident occurs that will change the trajectory of Willow’s life forever …
As more girls disappear and the finger points closer to Roman, Willow must navigate between desire and danger. Will her loneliness make her invisible or an easy target for those hunting?
There is a content warning at the beginning of this book which is very necessary. With elements of sexual abuse, trafficking, deteriorating mental health and murder, this story is a difficult read. The writing itself is relatively easy; short sentences written as if it is a constant conversation or thoughts so it flows easily, but the topics are what makes it heavy.
The ending was unexpected and I was a 3.5 until I got here - didn’t expect this! 👀
A story of a teenage push for independence, vulnerability, a parents love, difficult relationships, human trafficking, predatory behaviour, trauma and exploitation, this is suspenseful, harrowing and a psychological thriller that has you shocked at the culprit. This is one that will make you think, even once the book has ended.
Thank you to NetGalley, Sadie Sloan and Tanager Court Press for the ARC of this book in return for honest feedback.
A small town. Multiple missing young girls. And a teenager willing to push the boundaries of her parents and find out more about the new town she has moved to as well as its residents … with devastating results.
There are three rules in Modesta - trust no one, don’t go anywhere alone and be home before dark. Willow breaks all three the moment she arrives. Willow has been sent to live with her father, Frank, but the new town is no safe haven. Restless and desperate for connection, Willow finds herself caught between the safety of new friends and a budding romance with Roman Sullivan.
Roman Sullivan and the rest of his family are bad news. They own the local Winery ‘The Sweet Vines’ and hold a lot of power in the town. Willow finds herself drawn to Roman, the younger of the two brothers. Despite her inner thoughts telling her that there are red flags, he is charming and able to push these concerns down. During a dinner at their home, an incident occurs that will change the trajectory of Willow’s life forever …
As more girls disappear and the finger points closer to Roman, Willow must navigate between desire and danger. Will her loneliness make her invisible or an easy target for those hunting?
There is a content warning at the beginning of this book which is very necessary. With elements of sexual abuse, trafficking, deteriorating mental health and murder, this story is a difficult read. The writing itself is relatively easy; short sentences written as if it is a constant conversation or thoughts so it flows easily, but the topics are what makes it heavy.
The ending was unexpected and I was a 3.5 until I got here - didn’t expect this! 👀
A story of a teenage push for independence, vulnerability, a parents love, difficult relationships, human trafficking, predatory behaviour, trauma and exploitation, this is suspenseful, harrowing and a psychological thriller that has you shocked at the culprit. This is one that will make you think, even once the book has ended.
Thank you to NetGalley, Sadie Sloan and Tanager Court Press for the ARC of this book in return for honest feedback.
July 2, 2026
Where the Sweet Vines Grow is a remarkable debut that introduces Sadie Sloan as a compelling new voice in Teen & Young Adult Law & Crime Stories.
The novel is a chilling, atmospheric exploration of loneliness and the dangerous allure of being seen, capturing the intense emotional stakes of the teenage experience.
From the opening pages, the story effectively pulls the reader into the quiet, suffocating atmosphere of Modesto, California, which acts as a character in its own right.
A pervasive sense of dread blankets the town, fueled by the mysterious circumstances surrounding the Sullivan family and a haunting local history that leaves no one feeling truly safe.
The narrative follows sixteen-year-old Willow, who arrives in Modesto after a difficult breakup, searching for a fresh start. She is a character who resonates deeply as she struggles to navigate the isolation of her new environment while desperately seeking to find her place.
When her path crosses with the town’s magnetic golden boy, Roman Sullivan, the story masterfully blurs the line between reality and perception. Roman exerts a profound influence on the story, injecting a constant, unsettling tension that permeates even the most seemingly peaceful interactions.
While the mystery of missing girls and suspicious townspeople kept me turning pages long after I should have gone to bed, the true strength of the novel lies in its examination of teen love and the mechanics of manipulation. Sloan captures the intersection of desire, validation, and obsession with unsettling accuracy, offering a sobering look at how predators hide behind charm and how isolation can make even the smartest individuals vulnerable.
Although I did guess the direction of the plot relatively early and found that some formatting issues occasionally disrupted the flow, the strength of the atmosphere and the emotional weight of Willow’s experience kept me completely invested.
This is an important, haunting story that feels painfully relevant in today’s climate. It serves as a stark reminder that one never truly knows who a person is beneath the version they choose to display.
Ultimately, it is a story that sinks its roots into you and refuses to let go.
The novel is a chilling, atmospheric exploration of loneliness and the dangerous allure of being seen, capturing the intense emotional stakes of the teenage experience.
From the opening pages, the story effectively pulls the reader into the quiet, suffocating atmosphere of Modesto, California, which acts as a character in its own right.
A pervasive sense of dread blankets the town, fueled by the mysterious circumstances surrounding the Sullivan family and a haunting local history that leaves no one feeling truly safe.
The narrative follows sixteen-year-old Willow, who arrives in Modesto after a difficult breakup, searching for a fresh start. She is a character who resonates deeply as she struggles to navigate the isolation of her new environment while desperately seeking to find her place.
When her path crosses with the town’s magnetic golden boy, Roman Sullivan, the story masterfully blurs the line between reality and perception. Roman exerts a profound influence on the story, injecting a constant, unsettling tension that permeates even the most seemingly peaceful interactions.
While the mystery of missing girls and suspicious townspeople kept me turning pages long after I should have gone to bed, the true strength of the novel lies in its examination of teen love and the mechanics of manipulation. Sloan captures the intersection of desire, validation, and obsession with unsettling accuracy, offering a sobering look at how predators hide behind charm and how isolation can make even the smartest individuals vulnerable.
Although I did guess the direction of the plot relatively early and found that some formatting issues occasionally disrupted the flow, the strength of the atmosphere and the emotional weight of Willow’s experience kept me completely invested.
This is an important, haunting story that feels painfully relevant in today’s climate. It serves as a stark reminder that one never truly knows who a person is beneath the version they choose to display.
Ultimately, it is a story that sinks its roots into you and refuses to let go.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Edited after sitting on my original thoughts for a while and realizing I had more to say.
✦•┈๑⋅⋯ Where The Sweet Vines Grow by Sadie Sloan ⋯⋅๑┈•✦
• 3.75/5 ☆ •
── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──
Where The Sweet Vines Grow starts out feeling like a classic angsty YA mystery story and then slowly becomes something much heavier than I initially expected.
The first half follows Willow through school drama, the missing girls mystery building around Modesto, and a slow burn connection with Roman, the town hunk with a mysterious streak. Willow's voice carries the whole thing. She's sarcastic and self aware and genuinely funny, which makes her really easy to root for even when things start to get complicated.
The second half is where the tone shifts hard. The story moves into trauma, implied SA, and human trafficking, and the emotional weight ramps up fast. The author handles it with care, but it's still a lot. The jump from the lighter beginning to where it ends up going is abrupt, but it's effective.
The friendships were a mixed bag for me. Willow and Tangie's bond adds a lot of warmth to the story, but I wasn't crazy about Tangie being introduced as the class bully, especially because she’s the only Black girl in the cast and that is the first impression we get of her. The third friend in their group (Gabriela) also kind of disappears for most of the book and only shows back up near the end, which made her feel more like a placeholder than an actual character.
But that epilogue 😰 I did not see that coming at all and now I have so many questions.
Overall, I am glad I read it. It is a memorable story, and the short chapters make it easy to move through even when the subject matter gets heavy.
── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──
If you like:
✔️ darker YA
✔️ missing girl mysteries
✔️ small town secrets
✔️ emotional coming of age stories
✔️ complicated relationships
✔️ books that tackle difficult topics
── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──
📅 Pub Day: Jun 30, 2026 📚
💌 ARC gifted via NetGalley from Tanager Court Press. All opinions are my own.
✦•┈๑⋅⋯ Where The Sweet Vines Grow by Sadie Sloan ⋯⋅๑┈•✦
• 3.75/5 ☆ •
── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──
Where The Sweet Vines Grow starts out feeling like a classic angsty YA mystery story and then slowly becomes something much heavier than I initially expected.
The first half follows Willow through school drama, the missing girls mystery building around Modesto, and a slow burn connection with Roman, the town hunk with a mysterious streak. Willow's voice carries the whole thing. She's sarcastic and self aware and genuinely funny, which makes her really easy to root for even when things start to get complicated.
The second half is where the tone shifts hard. The story moves into trauma, implied SA, and human trafficking, and the emotional weight ramps up fast. The author handles it with care, but it's still a lot. The jump from the lighter beginning to where it ends up going is abrupt, but it's effective.
The friendships were a mixed bag for me. Willow and Tangie's bond adds a lot of warmth to the story, but I wasn't crazy about Tangie being introduced as the class bully, especially because she’s the only Black girl in the cast and that is the first impression we get of her. The third friend in their group (Gabriela) also kind of disappears for most of the book and only shows back up near the end, which made her feel more like a placeholder than an actual character.
But that epilogue 😰 I did not see that coming at all and now I have so many questions.
Overall, I am glad I read it. It is a memorable story, and the short chapters make it easy to move through even when the subject matter gets heavy.
── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──
If you like:
✔️ darker YA
✔️ missing girl mysteries
✔️ small town secrets
✔️ emotional coming of age stories
✔️ complicated relationships
✔️ books that tackle difficult topics
── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──
📅 Pub Day: Jun 30, 2026 📚
💌 ARC gifted via NetGalley from Tanager Court Press. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy
Sadie Sloan does an excellent job of building suspense from the beginning, slowly revealing secrets hidden beneath the surface of a quiet town. Willow’s move to Modesto feels unsettling from the start, and every chapter increases the feeling that something dangerous is lurking just out of sight. The pacing is smooth and addictive, making the novel incredibly easy to binge-read.
The book shines through its rich emotional storytelling and strong voice. Willow’s inner thoughts feel raw, honest, and believable, especially as she struggles with loneliness, trauma, and the desire to feel understood. Her attraction to Roman Sullivan adds a dangerous layer of tension that keeps readers emotionally invested. At the same time, characters like Tangie and Gabriela bring intelligence, humor, and heart to the story, making the friendships feel genuine and memorable. The dialogue feels natural and modern which makes the characters come alive on the page.
Beyond the mystery itself, the novel explores deeper themes surrounding trust, identity, emotional manipulation, and the fear many young women experience when navigating unsafe environments. The suspense builds steadily through eerie imagery, missing girl cases, and subtle clues scattered throughout the story. Sadie Sloan creates a thriller that lingers long after reading the last page.
The book shines through its rich emotional storytelling and strong voice. Willow’s inner thoughts feel raw, honest, and believable, especially as she struggles with loneliness, trauma, and the desire to feel understood. Her attraction to Roman Sullivan adds a dangerous layer of tension that keeps readers emotionally invested. At the same time, characters like Tangie and Gabriela bring intelligence, humor, and heart to the story, making the friendships feel genuine and memorable. The dialogue feels natural and modern which makes the characters come alive on the page.
Beyond the mystery itself, the novel explores deeper themes surrounding trust, identity, emotional manipulation, and the fear many young women experience when navigating unsafe environments. The suspense builds steadily through eerie imagery, missing girl cases, and subtle clues scattered throughout the story. Sadie Sloan creates a thriller that lingers long after reading the last page.
Review of advance copy
Where the Sweet Vines Grow is a gripping story that immediately pulls readers into a tense and unsettling atmosphere. From the very first chapters, Sadie Sloan creates a haunting small-town setting filled with secrets, fear, and emotional tension. Willow is a compelling protagonist whose vulnerability, sarcasm, and emotional depth make her feel relatable.
One of the strongest aspects of the novel is its character development and realistic dialogue. The friendships between Willow, Tangie, and Gabriela bring warmth and humor into an otherwise dark story, creating a strong emotional balance throughout the narrative. Sloan also explores difficult themes such as trauma, manipulation, missing girls, and toxic relationships with honesty and sensitivity. The constant feeling of danger surrounding the Sullivan brothers adds suspense to every interaction and keeps readers questioning who can truly be trusted.
What makes this thriller stand out is its atmosphere. The rural setting, missing persons cases, and eerie canal scenes create a lingering sense of dread that stays with the reader long after each chapter ends. Sadie Sloan captures teenage emotions well while still delivering a suspenseful mystery full of tension and intrigue.
One of the strongest aspects of the novel is its character development and realistic dialogue. The friendships between Willow, Tangie, and Gabriela bring warmth and humor into an otherwise dark story, creating a strong emotional balance throughout the narrative. Sloan also explores difficult themes such as trauma, manipulation, missing girls, and toxic relationships with honesty and sensitivity. The constant feeling of danger surrounding the Sullivan brothers adds suspense to every interaction and keeps readers questioning who can truly be trusted.
What makes this thriller stand out is its atmosphere. The rural setting, missing persons cases, and eerie canal scenes create a lingering sense of dread that stays with the reader long after each chapter ends. Sadie Sloan captures teenage emotions well while still delivering a suspenseful mystery full of tension and intrigue.
July 31, 2026
I’m torn on this one
On one hand it had a good plot and i understood what the author was trying to do
On the other hand over half the book was the main character (16) partying and drinking
Which took alot away from the story
So basically this started out as a thriller and then twisted into like a psychological horror?
The set up and the execution weren’t the best
And the heavily implied closed door scene between two characters didn’t really add anything to the story imo
The idea was sound but man was it dark
And I didn’t really like the characters that much
Willow was kind of annoying and had the survival skills of an artichoke
Tangie and Gabi also had no self preservation and felt like enablers to Willows dangerous behavior
(Like maybe don’t go out at night and get drunk at a party while there is a known kidnapper in town)
Again I understood the point the author was trying to make but the execution was lacking and I was just left feeling confused
Id be interested in reading more of the authors books because the psychological aspect of it was interesting but just not as fleshed out as I’d hoped it would be
1.75 ⭐️
Language 4/10
Violence 5.5/10
Suggestive content/Romance 4/10
LGBT content: No
Other: multiple underage drinking scenes
Recommended age rating: 16+
On one hand it had a good plot and i understood what the author was trying to do
On the other hand over half the book was the main character (16) partying and drinking
Which took alot away from the story
So basically this started out as a thriller and then twisted into like a psychological horror?
The set up and the execution weren’t the best
And the heavily implied closed door scene between two characters didn’t really add anything to the story imo
The idea was sound but man was it dark
And I didn’t really like the characters that much
Willow was kind of annoying and had the survival skills of an artichoke
Tangie and Gabi also had no self preservation and felt like enablers to Willows dangerous behavior
(Like maybe don’t go out at night and get drunk at a party while there is a known kidnapper in town)
Again I understood the point the author was trying to make but the execution was lacking and I was just left feeling confused
Id be interested in reading more of the authors books because the psychological aspect of it was interesting but just not as fleshed out as I’d hoped it would be
1.75 ⭐️
Language 4/10
Violence 5.5/10
Suggestive content/Romance 4/10
LGBT content: No
Other: multiple underage drinking scenes
Recommended age rating: 16+
Review of advance copy received from Author
Gripping, Tragic, and Most Unexpected!!
In a world of carefree young adulthood, you are fearless and never stop to think of life's many dangers. Where the Sweet Vines Grow, is exactly that coming of age, fearless teen mentality. When young Willow, enters her new surroundings... new town, new school, new friends, Life is not as simple as just moving on. There is a bad vibe of events in her town, unexplained disappearances of girls her age. People whispering names. Who can a girl trust?? In this story not everything is as it seems to be. Careful who you allow into your circle, who you allow invitations from, and above all else who you trust!! This book made me nervous, cry, and wish my kids were all close by. And the plot twist to this story, has me begging for a second book!! I could not put this book down!! It will pull you in from start to finish!! Warning!! There are triggers of abuse, death, loss and addictions mentioned. However there is hope, but not so fast!! Do you know where your kids are tonight?? If you are into Psychological Thrillers... I highly recommend this book!! A must read and be ready with tissues and a glass of wine!! Trust me you'll need it!!
In a world of carefree young adulthood, you are fearless and never stop to think of life's many dangers. Where the Sweet Vines Grow, is exactly that coming of age, fearless teen mentality. When young Willow, enters her new surroundings... new town, new school, new friends, Life is not as simple as just moving on. There is a bad vibe of events in her town, unexplained disappearances of girls her age. People whispering names. Who can a girl trust?? In this story not everything is as it seems to be. Careful who you allow into your circle, who you allow invitations from, and above all else who you trust!! This book made me nervous, cry, and wish my kids were all close by. And the plot twist to this story, has me begging for a second book!! I could not put this book down!! It will pull you in from start to finish!! Warning!! There are triggers of abuse, death, loss and addictions mentioned. However there is hope, but not so fast!! Do you know where your kids are tonight?? If you are into Psychological Thrillers... I highly recommend this book!! A must read and be ready with tissues and a glass of wine!! Trust me you'll need it!!
July 22, 2026
When people say “YA thriller” with a girl as the main protagonist, I can’t help but think of A Girl’s Guide to Murder. This is, unfortunately, nowhere near the standard that AGGM has set for YA thrillers.
I will state that I did not get past the halfway mark. The writing felt juvenile, as if the text had been dumbed down to fit the YA audience, with constant repetitions, strange sentence-to-sentence pacing, and relying over and over again on the classic “thriller style” of writing rather than trying to find its own voice. The characters acted as if there were 12 in some parts, adults in others – not to mention the entire thing with Roman’s attitude, which is just textbook bad-boy behaviour that you would find on places like Wattpad. This is a published novel – I expected better.
Sadie Sloan does have a talent for creating a mysterious atmosphere, though, so it’s not all bad. It was just not good enough to keep me reading and find out if it got any better. I kept coming back to it after it would disappoint me, but after five or so second chances, I had to accept that I was not going to finish this one, regardless of how short it was.
I will state that I did not get past the halfway mark. The writing felt juvenile, as if the text had been dumbed down to fit the YA audience, with constant repetitions, strange sentence-to-sentence pacing, and relying over and over again on the classic “thriller style” of writing rather than trying to find its own voice. The characters acted as if there were 12 in some parts, adults in others – not to mention the entire thing with Roman’s attitude, which is just textbook bad-boy behaviour that you would find on places like Wattpad. This is a published novel – I expected better.
Sadie Sloan does have a talent for creating a mysterious atmosphere, though, so it’s not all bad. It was just not good enough to keep me reading and find out if it got any better. I kept coming back to it after it would disappoint me, but after five or so second chances, I had to accept that I was not going to finish this one, regardless of how short it was.
Review of advance copy
Where the Sweet Vines Grow is a gripping thriller that blends mystery, suspense, and emotional depth into a story that is difficult to put down. From the moment Willow arrives in Modesto and becomes aware of the town’s unsettling history of missing girls, the novel creates an atmosphere of unease that lingers throughout every chapter.
What stood out most to me was the way the author explores vulnerability and trauma through Willow’s perspective. She feels flawed, impulsive, and deeply human. Her relationships with friends, family, and potential love interests add emotional weight to the story, making the stakes feel personal. The friendships, especially with Tangie and Gabriela, bring warmth and balance to the darker elements of the narrative.
Sadie Sloan crafts a thriller that is suspenseful and thought-provoking. The mystery kept me guessing, but it was the emotional journey of the characters that stayed with me after I finished reading. Readers who enjoy atmospheric thrillers with strong character development and meaningful themes will find plenty to appreciate in this book.
What stood out most to me was the way the author explores vulnerability and trauma through Willow’s perspective. She feels flawed, impulsive, and deeply human. Her relationships with friends, family, and potential love interests add emotional weight to the story, making the stakes feel personal. The friendships, especially with Tangie and Gabriela, bring warmth and balance to the darker elements of the narrative.
Sadie Sloan crafts a thriller that is suspenseful and thought-provoking. The mystery kept me guessing, but it was the emotional journey of the characters that stayed with me after I finished reading. Readers who enjoy atmospheric thrillers with strong character development and meaningful themes will find plenty to appreciate in this book.
Review of advance copy
Where the Sweet Vines Grow succeeds not only as a thriller but also as a character-driven exploration of trust, identity, and belonging.
Through Willow’s narration, the novel examines how past experiences shape perception and decision-making. Her move from the Bay Area to a rural California town creates a compelling contrast between two worlds, while also positioning her as both an outsider and an observer.
Sloan carefully layers details of orchards, irrigation canals, dusty roads, and local traditions to create an environment that feels familiar. This setting becomes the perfect backdrop for a story centered on disappearances, rumors, and generational secrets. The narrative consistently blurs the line between perceived danger and genuine threat.
Beyond the mystery, the book offers thoughtful commentary on community dynamics, victim-blaming, and the complexities of adolescence. The characters are nuanced enough to avoid simple stereotypes, and the relationships evolve naturally throughout the story.
Through Willow’s narration, the novel examines how past experiences shape perception and decision-making. Her move from the Bay Area to a rural California town creates a compelling contrast between two worlds, while also positioning her as both an outsider and an observer.
Sloan carefully layers details of orchards, irrigation canals, dusty roads, and local traditions to create an environment that feels familiar. This setting becomes the perfect backdrop for a story centered on disappearances, rumors, and generational secrets. The narrative consistently blurs the line between perceived danger and genuine threat.
Beyond the mystery, the book offers thoughtful commentary on community dynamics, victim-blaming, and the complexities of adolescence. The characters are nuanced enough to avoid simple stereotypes, and the relationships evolve naturally throughout the story.
Review of advance copy
I went into Where the Sweet Vines Grow expecting a mystery, but I ended up enjoying the characters just as much as the suspense. Willow is a relatable protagonist whose sarcasm, mistakes, and curiosity make her easy to root for. Watching her navigate a new town, new friendships, and a growing mystery kept me invested from beginning to end.
One thing I loved was the friendship dynamic. Tangie and Gabriela brought humor and personality to the story, helping balance the darker subject matter. Their conversations often provided some of my favorite moments in the book. At the same time, the looming threat surrounding the missing girls ensured that the story never lost its sense of urgency.
The book strikes a nice balance between thriller, coming-of-age story, and emotional drama. It delivers suspense without sacrificing character development, and it leaves readers eager to uncover the truth behind the town’s secrets. I would definitely recommend it to readers who enjoy mysteries with strong female characters and plenty of twists along the way.
One thing I loved was the friendship dynamic. Tangie and Gabriela brought humor and personality to the story, helping balance the darker subject matter. Their conversations often provided some of my favorite moments in the book. At the same time, the looming threat surrounding the missing girls ensured that the story never lost its sense of urgency.
The book strikes a nice balance between thriller, coming-of-age story, and emotional drama. It delivers suspense without sacrificing character development, and it leaves readers eager to uncover the truth behind the town’s secrets. I would definitely recommend it to readers who enjoy mysteries with strong female characters and plenty of twists along the way.
Review of advance copy
Where the Sweet Vines Grow is the kind of book that constantly makes you question who can be trusted. Every interaction feels layered with hidden meaning, and the deeper Willow gets involved with the people around her, the more unsettling the story becomes.
The author expertly builds tension through rumors, suspicious behavior, and a growing sense that danger is lurking just beneath the surface.
What I appreciated most was how the mystery unfolds gradually. The warnings about the Sullivan family, the disappearances in town, and Willow’s fascination with Roman all work together to create a slow-burning sense of dread that becomes increasingly addictive.
By the final chapters, I was completely invested in uncovering the truth. The combination of psychological tension, emotional stakes, and clever storytelling makes this a standout thriller. Readers who enjoy mysteries that focus on both character development and suspense will find themselves fully absorbed in this haunting story.
The author expertly builds tension through rumors, suspicious behavior, and a growing sense that danger is lurking just beneath the surface.
What I appreciated most was how the mystery unfolds gradually. The warnings about the Sullivan family, the disappearances in town, and Willow’s fascination with Roman all work together to create a slow-burning sense of dread that becomes increasingly addictive.
By the final chapters, I was completely invested in uncovering the truth. The combination of psychological tension, emotional stakes, and clever storytelling makes this a standout thriller. Readers who enjoy mysteries that focus on both character development and suspense will find themselves fully absorbed in this haunting story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Have you ever trusted someone even when a small voice in your head told you to be careful? That feeling runs through Where the Sweet Vines Grow and made this story feel tense from the very beginning. The mystery unfolds slowly, with secrets hiding around every corner and an atmosphere that constantly made me wonder who was telling the truth.
Willow is a character I connected with easily. She is dealing with heartbreak, a new town, and the challenge of starting over while trying to find people she can rely on. Her decisions felt natural for someone her age, and that made her journey feel genuine. Roman added another layer of uncertainty because I could never fully decide whether he was someone to trust or someone to fear.
For me, this was more than a story about missing girls and small-town secrets. It also explores loneliness, friendship, and how easy it can be to overlook warning signs when all you want is a place to belong. The suspense kept me turning the pages, and the ending left me thinking about the story long after I finished reading.
Willow is a character I connected with easily. She is dealing with heartbreak, a new town, and the challenge of starting over while trying to find people she can rely on. Her decisions felt natural for someone her age, and that made her journey feel genuine. Roman added another layer of uncertainty because I could never fully decide whether he was someone to trust or someone to fear.
For me, this was more than a story about missing girls and small-town secrets. It also explores loneliness, friendship, and how easy it can be to overlook warning signs when all you want is a place to belong. The suspense kept me turning the pages, and the ending left me thinking about the story long after I finished reading.
Review of advance copy
While the mystery is compelling, the heart of Where the Sweet Vines Grow lies in its characters. Willow feels refreshingly real, carrying the weight of family struggles, self-doubt, and the challenges of starting over in a new town. Her inner thoughts and vulnerabilities make her journey feel deeply personal and emotionally engaging.
The friendships in this novel were some of my favorite parts. Tangie and Gabriela bring humor, loyalty, and authenticity to the story, creating moments of warmth that balance the darker themes. Their conversations feel natural and believable, capturing the complexity of teenage friendships and the comfort that comes from finding people who truly see you.
Sadie Sloan delivers more than just a thriller, she creates an emotional coming-of-age story wrapped inside a mystery. The book explores loneliness, belonging, trust, and identity in a way that resonates long after the final page. Readers looking for a suspenseful story with genuine emotional depth will not be disappointed.
The friendships in this novel were some of my favorite parts. Tangie and Gabriela bring humor, loyalty, and authenticity to the story, creating moments of warmth that balance the darker themes. Their conversations feel natural and believable, capturing the complexity of teenage friendships and the comfort that comes from finding people who truly see you.
Sadie Sloan delivers more than just a thriller, she creates an emotional coming-of-age story wrapped inside a mystery. The book explores loneliness, belonging, trust, and identity in a way that resonates long after the final page. Readers looking for a suspenseful story with genuine emotional depth will not be disappointed.
Review of advance copy
From the first chapter, Where the Sweet Vines Grow pulled me into a world filled with secrets, romance, and danger. The story has everything I love in a thriller: a mysterious small town, a charismatic yet questionable love interest, missing girls, and enough twists to keep me glued to the pages. Every chapter seemed to end with another question that demanded an answer.
Roman Sullivan is the type of character who immediately sparks debate. Is he charming or dangerous? Trustworthy or manipulative? The uncertainty surrounding him adds tremendous tension to the story and keeps readers guessing right alongside Willow. Their dynamic is magnetic, making it impossible not to become invested in where the relationship will lead.
This novel perfectly balances suspense and emotion. The writing is immersive, the pacing is strong, and the atmosphere is filled with unease from beginning to end. If you enjoy thrillers that combine mystery, romance, and psychological intrigue, Where the Sweet Vines Grow is a book that deserves a spot on your reading list.
Roman Sullivan is the type of character who immediately sparks debate. Is he charming or dangerous? Trustworthy or manipulative? The uncertainty surrounding him adds tremendous tension to the story and keeps readers guessing right alongside Willow. Their dynamic is magnetic, making it impossible not to become invested in where the relationship will lead.
This novel perfectly balances suspense and emotion. The writing is immersive, the pacing is strong, and the atmosphere is filled with unease from beginning to end. If you enjoy thrillers that combine mystery, romance, and psychological intrigue, Where the Sweet Vines Grow is a book that deserves a spot on your reading list.
Review of advance copy received from Author
There is something about small-town mysteries that always catches my attention, and Where the Sweet Vines Grow reminded me why I enjoy this genre so much. The story begins with three simple rules, and from that moment I knew this was not going to be an easy or comfortable ride. The sense of danger quietly hangs over every chapter.
I really felt for Willow. She is already carrying the pain of a breakup and then has to adjust to a completely new life with her father. Her need to belong and make connections felt genuine. I found myself understanding her choices, even when I wanted to tell her to slow down and be more careful. Roman was also an interesting character because every scene with him made me wonder if he was a source of comfort or trouble.
By the end, I realized this book is not only about solving a mystery. It is also about how loneliness can make people ignore warning signs and trust the wrong person. It kept me interested the whole way through, and I finished it in one weekend because I simply needed answers.
I really felt for Willow. She is already carrying the pain of a breakup and then has to adjust to a completely new life with her father. Her need to belong and make connections felt genuine. I found myself understanding her choices, even when I wanted to tell her to slow down and be more careful. Roman was also an interesting character because every scene with him made me wonder if he was a source of comfort or trouble.
By the end, I realized this book is not only about solving a mystery. It is also about how loneliness can make people ignore warning signs and trust the wrong person. It kept me interested the whole way through, and I finished it in one weekend because I simply needed answers.
June 30, 2026
The first thing that caught my attention about Where the Sweet Vines Grow was the three rules at the beginning. They immediately made me curious because if a town needs rules like that, something is clearly wrong. As I read, I felt a constant sense of unease, like danger was always nearby even during the quieter moments.
Willow's character felt very real to me. She is hurting, lonely, and trying to find a place where she belongs. I think many people can relate to wanting someone to understand them, especially during difficult times. That made her choices feel human rather than frustrating.
I also liked that the mystery did not give easy answers. Every time I thought I knew who could be trusted, another piece of information made me question everything again. Roman's character especially kept me guessing.
This book combines suspense with emotions in a way that feels natural. I finished it feeling like I had been part of Willow's journey, and I would happily recommend it to anyone who enjoys mysteries with heart.
Willow's character felt very real to me. She is hurting, lonely, and trying to find a place where she belongs. I think many people can relate to wanting someone to understand them, especially during difficult times. That made her choices feel human rather than frustrating.
I also liked that the mystery did not give easy answers. Every time I thought I knew who could be trusted, another piece of information made me question everything again. Roman's character especially kept me guessing.
This book combines suspense with emotions in a way that feels natural. I finished it feeling like I had been part of Willow's journey, and I would happily recommend it to anyone who enjoys mysteries with heart.
July 4, 2026
I love thrillers that keep me guessing, and Where the Sweet Vines Grow delivered exactly that. The mystery surrounding the disappearances unfolds gradually, allowing readers to collect clues without ever feeling certain about where the story is headed. The rumors surrounding the Sullivan family create constant uncertainty, making every interaction with Roman feel both exciting and suspicious.
One of my favorite aspects was how naturally the suspense developed. Instead of relying on nonstop action, Sloan builds tension through whispers in school hallways, uncomfortable silences, and conflicting stories told by different characters. Tangie's repeated warnings about Roman only make Willow and the reader even more curious about him.
By focusing equally on mystery and character relationships, the novel creates genuine emotional investment. I wasn't just trying to solve the case, I genuinely cared about what would happen to Willow and her friends. It's an excellent choice for readers who enjoy psychological suspense with strong emotional stakes.
One of my favorite aspects was how naturally the suspense developed. Instead of relying on nonstop action, Sloan builds tension through whispers in school hallways, uncomfortable silences, and conflicting stories told by different characters. Tangie's repeated warnings about Roman only make Willow and the reader even more curious about him.
By focusing equally on mystery and character relationships, the novel creates genuine emotional investment. I wasn't just trying to solve the case, I genuinely cared about what would happen to Willow and her friends. It's an excellent choice for readers who enjoy psychological suspense with strong emotional stakes.
July 4, 2026
While the mystery drew me into Where the Sweet Vines Grow, the characters made me stay. Willow feels like a real teenager trying to navigate grief, loneliness, first love, and uncertainty. Her sarcastic humor balances her vulnerability, making her both relatable and memorable throughout the novel.
Tangie quickly became my favorite character. She is outspoken, intelligent, and protective without ever feeling one-dimensional. Her conversations with Willow range from hilarious to heartfelt, especially during the sleepover scenes where the girls discuss family, relationships, and their hopes for the future. Gabriela adds another layer of warmth, making their friendship feel authentic.
The emotional connections between the characters elevate the story beyond a traditional thriller. Sloan understands that readers become invested in mysteries because they care about the people involved. That emotional foundation makes every dangerous situation feel more meaningful and every revelation carries greater impact.
Tangie quickly became my favorite character. She is outspoken, intelligent, and protective without ever feeling one-dimensional. Her conversations with Willow range from hilarious to heartfelt, especially during the sleepover scenes where the girls discuss family, relationships, and their hopes for the future. Gabriela adds another layer of warmth, making their friendship feel authentic.
The emotional connections between the characters elevate the story beyond a traditional thriller. Sloan understands that readers become invested in mysteries because they care about the people involved. That emotional foundation makes every dangerous situation feel more meaningful and every revelation carries greater impact.
July 4, 2026
Where the Sweet Vines Grow thrives on atmosphere. Sadie Sloan transforms the quiet streets, vineyards, and irrigation canals of Modesto into a setting where beauty and danger coexist. The town itself feels alive, carrying an unsettling history that quietly shapes every interaction.
Willow is an engaging narrator because she is both observant and emotionally vulnerable. Her struggle to fit into a new school while carrying the emotional weight of her parents' separation and her own mental health challenges gives the story depth beyond its central mystery. Her growing friendship with Tangie and Gabriela adds warmth and humor, creating a believable support system that contrasts with the darkness surrounding the missing girls.
The novel succeeds because it balances emotional storytelling with suspense. Every chapter reveals another layer of the town's secrets while encouraging readers to question appearances. Fans of character-driven thrillers will appreciate the rich atmosphere, believable dialogue, and carefully constructed mystery that keeps the pages turning.
Willow is an engaging narrator because she is both observant and emotionally vulnerable. Her struggle to fit into a new school while carrying the emotional weight of her parents' separation and her own mental health challenges gives the story depth beyond its central mystery. Her growing friendship with Tangie and Gabriela adds warmth and humor, creating a believable support system that contrasts with the darkness surrounding the missing girls.
The novel succeeds because it balances emotional storytelling with suspense. Every chapter reveals another layer of the town's secrets while encouraging readers to question appearances. Fans of character-driven thrillers will appreciate the rich atmosphere, believable dialogue, and carefully constructed mystery that keeps the pages turning.
July 4, 2026
From its opening chapters, Where the Sweet Vines Grow grabbed my attention and never really let go. The pacing is excellent, with short chapters that consistently introduce new questions while revealing just enough information to keep the mystery moving forward. Every time I thought I understood what was happening, another conversation or clue made me reconsider.
The dialogue deserves special praise. Willow's sarcastic personality shines through her interactions with Tangie, Gabriela, and Roman, making each relationship feel distinct. The conversations never feel forced, and the humor provides welcome relief before the story shifts back into darker territory involving missing girls and dangerous secrets.
This is an entertaining blend of psychological suspense, coming-of-age drama, and slow-burn romance. Readers who enjoy layered mysteries, memorable friendships, and a setting that feels as mysterious as the characters themselves will likely find Where the Sweet Vines Grow to be a thoroughly satisfying read.
The dialogue deserves special praise. Willow's sarcastic personality shines through her interactions with Tangie, Gabriela, and Roman, making each relationship feel distinct. The conversations never feel forced, and the humor provides welcome relief before the story shifts back into darker territory involving missing girls and dangerous secrets.
This is an entertaining blend of psychological suspense, coming-of-age drama, and slow-burn romance. Readers who enjoy layered mysteries, memorable friendships, and a setting that feels as mysterious as the characters themselves will likely find Where the Sweet Vines Grow to be a thoroughly satisfying read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I do not usually read a lot of young adult suspense novels, but this one surprised me in the best way. The story grabbed my attention almost immediately and kept me interested the entire time. Willow's move to Modesto feels like the beginning of a fresh start, but the atmosphere quickly becomes darker and more unsettling. I loved how the author slowly built tension without rushing into dramatic twists. The mystery surrounding the missing girls constantly lingered in the background, making every interaction feel important.
What really stood out to me was the emotional side of the story. Willow's loneliness and desire to connect with people felt genuine, and that made her vulnerable in ways that were easy to understand. The romance added another layer of uncertainty because I never knew whether Roman could be trusted. The combination of suspense, secrets, and personal struggles made this a very engaging read that stayed interesting from beginning to end.
What really stood out to me was the emotional side of the story. Willow's loneliness and desire to connect with people felt genuine, and that made her vulnerable in ways that were easy to understand. The romance added another layer of uncertainty because I never knew whether Roman could be trusted. The combination of suspense, secrets, and personal struggles made this a very engaging read that stayed interesting from beginning to end.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am always looking for mysteries that keep me guessing, and Where the Sweet Vines Grow did exactly that. From the first few chapters, there was this uneasy feeling that something terrible was hiding beneath the surface of this small town. I kept changing my mind about the characters because nobody seemed completely innocent.
Willow felt like a real teenager trying to find her place after her life suddenly changed. I understood why she wanted friendship and connection so badly, even when it led her into risky situations. Her relationship with Roman added even more tension because I could never decide whether he was a good guy or someone she should run from.
This book is more than a story about disappearances. It also touches on loneliness and how easy it is to trust the wrong people when you feel alone. I finished the last page with a lot to think about, and I can easily see why fans of young adult suspense are talking about this one.
Willow felt like a real teenager trying to find her place after her life suddenly changed. I understood why she wanted friendship and connection so badly, even when it led her into risky situations. Her relationship with Roman added even more tension because I could never decide whether he was a good guy or someone she should run from.
This book is more than a story about disappearances. It also touches on loneliness and how easy it is to trust the wrong people when you feel alone. I finished the last page with a lot to think about, and I can easily see why fans of young adult suspense are talking about this one.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Can a place feel dangerous even when nothing has happened yet? That was the feeling I had while reading this book. The town of Modesto seems ordinary on the surface, but there is a layer of fear underneath everything. I could almost feel Willow's uneasiness as she tried to figure out where she fit in.
I appreciated that the story spent time developing the characters instead of rushing straight into the mystery. Willow is not fearless or perfect. She makes mistakes, gets attached to people, and struggles with her emotions. That made her journey feel very believable to me. I also liked that I kept changing my opinion about different characters because everyone seemed to be hiding something.
This story gave me the same feeling I get when watching a suspense series and saying, "Just one more episode." Every chapter added another question, and I kept reading because I wanted to know the truth. It is a thoughtful and engaging mystery with plenty of emotional moments along the way.
I appreciated that the story spent time developing the characters instead of rushing straight into the mystery. Willow is not fearless or perfect. She makes mistakes, gets attached to people, and struggles with her emotions. That made her journey feel very believable to me. I also liked that I kept changing my opinion about different characters because everyone seemed to be hiding something.
This story gave me the same feeling I get when watching a suspense series and saying, "Just one more episode." Every chapter added another question, and I kept reading because I wanted to know the truth. It is a thoughtful and engaging mystery with plenty of emotional moments along the way.
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