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Pact #1
Far from the Surface
Far from the Surface is Book 2 in The Pact Series
When the pressure threatens to drag Lizzie into the darkness, will she be able to find her way out?
The world around sixteen-year-old Lizzie Wright is crumbling.
She begins her junior year with an enormous amount of weight on her shoulders. Not only will she have to try to defend her two state swimming titles, but her coach wants her to add even more events onto her roster.
That’s on top of the already anxiety-inducing amount of schoolwork.
And the issues she deals with at home, leaving her battered and bruised.
As the panic builds, Lizzie starts to sink. Soon, she’s so far under, she can’t see the surface anymore. And for the first time, she doesn’t think she wants to.
Will the weight continue to pull Lizzie under, or can she find her way back to the top?
Trigger Warning: This book deals with sensitive topics that may be difficult for some readers.
When the pressure threatens to drag Lizzie into the darkness, will she be able to find her way out?
The world around sixteen-year-old Lizzie Wright is crumbling.
She begins her junior year with an enormous amount of weight on her shoulders. Not only will she have to try to defend her two state swimming titles, but her coach wants her to add even more events onto her roster.
That’s on top of the already anxiety-inducing amount of schoolwork.
And the issues she deals with at home, leaving her battered and bruised.
As the panic builds, Lizzie starts to sink. Soon, she’s so far under, she can’t see the surface anymore. And for the first time, she doesn’t think she wants to.
Will the weight continue to pull Lizzie under, or can she find her way back to the top?
Trigger Warning: This book deals with sensitive topics that may be difficult for some readers.
226 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 18, 2021
3 people are currently reading
53 people want to read
About the author
Danielle Keil
58 books358 followersDanielle Keil grew up and spent the majority of her life in the Chicagoland area. A recent transplant, she is enjoying the Mississippi life, especially the pool in her backyard.
Danielle is happily married for over 10 years, and has two young children, a daughter and a son, who are exact replicas of her and her husband.
Danielle's love language is gifts, her Ennegram is a 9w1, and she loves everything purple.
The way to her heart is through coffee, chocolate and tacos (extra guac).
Danielle is happily married for over 10 years, and has two young children, a daughter and a son, who are exact replicas of her and her husband.
Danielle's love language is gifts, her Ennegram is a 9w1, and she loves everything purple.
The way to her heart is through coffee, chocolate and tacos (extra guac).
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
February 13, 2021
Lizzie starts to sink after leaving her home. Soon, she’s so far under, she can’t see the surface anymore. And for the first time, she doesn’t think she wants to. This saw a great sequel in the pact series.
February 8, 2021
Wow. Just wow. This book was incredible. I definitely felt Lizzie's pain throughout the book, and sometimes it even got to the point where it became a little difficult to read because I felt like I was back in the dark place I used to be in, but once I got to the ending, I realized that if Lizzie can reach the ending she got, I can too, and so can every other person who reads this book. I'm thankful for the hope it has given me, and I would definitely recommend reading it if you're comfortable with it. :)
January 30, 2022
Wow. WOW.
What a powerful story. This is a must read for everyone.
Danielle covered these tough topics in such an amazing way. I felt so many emotions reading this book.
What a powerful story. This is a must read for everyone.
Danielle covered these tough topics in such an amazing way. I felt so many emotions reading this book.
April 1, 2021
This story follows lizze and her struggle returning home from camp. This story so good and its very emotional. Trigger warning this book contains content in regards to self harm & abuse. I know this book is YA but i would recommend to everyone and in author words if you relate to this book know you are not alone. i cant wait for next book.
February 10, 2021
Beautiful. Broken. Believable. Lizzie’s story is inspiring. While it's harrowing in parts, it conveys such an important message, that healing IS possible. No matter how much damage you inflict on yourself, there are people who truly care. Finding your tribe, being accepted & understood by them without judgement is so important. In a world where shame is kept in the dark, this book is a glimmer of light. Danielle Keil does not flinch away from the reality of self-harm and dives deep into the tragic reality that so many people live with every single day. This story is honest, about the worst parts of life, how addiction of any kind can tear you to pieces. It is not sugary sweet, it does not hide the dark shadows, and it isn't going to pretend that everything is magically fixed. It isn't about romance, by any means, but I must add that I truly loved the blossoming friendship between Lizzie & Ethan as a secondary plot line. I absolutely LOVED Far from the Surface! You will experience a rollercoaster of emotions while reading this book. I wish I could give this book way more than FIVE STARS because it deserves way more than five. Danielle is one of my absolute FAVORITE authors and she truly outdid herself with Lizzie’s story!! This is a MUST READ...don’t hesitate, just head on over and one-click this book now!! I have NO doubt that the Pact series will be in my 2021 Top 5 reads. I can’t wait to read the remaining books in the series. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
February 15, 2021
Mental health is something that was considered taboo until recent years. Now, with more and more celebrities, doctors, and others speaking out more about the stigma, hope is now associated with the term instead of simply despair.
Far from the Surface is one of those examples of shedding hope on a somewhat dark subject, no matter the age.
Danielle Keil took us on a journey of Lizzie, one member of a camp group introduced from a novella- Secrets of the Summer- and the struggles she faces from the mounting pressures put on as a teenager and award-winning swimmer.
Keil paints a picture of Lizzie's struggles in such a way that you can feel her pain as a reader. The pain associated with her concept of living to perfect standards for her mom, teachers, swim coach and friends is almost tangible throughout the book.
Anyone struggling or knowing someone who struggles with mental health can easily relate to not only Lizzie, but others in the book who just want her to be happy and healthy. The story gives comfort and let's you know that there is light at the end of the tunnel, no matter how dark it went. The story also shows the importance of a few good friends.
While not a romance, Keil adds a loveable friend in Ethan who is the ideal "book boyfriend" next door. You can't help but love him for all he does as a friend to Lizzie.
Far from the Surface is a rollercoaster through the ups and downs of teenage expectations and the pressures to live to a certain standard. Heartbreaking and awe inspiring all wrapped up in one emotion-inducing ride.
Far from the Surface is one of those examples of shedding hope on a somewhat dark subject, no matter the age.
Danielle Keil took us on a journey of Lizzie, one member of a camp group introduced from a novella- Secrets of the Summer- and the struggles she faces from the mounting pressures put on as a teenager and award-winning swimmer.
Keil paints a picture of Lizzie's struggles in such a way that you can feel her pain as a reader. The pain associated with her concept of living to perfect standards for her mom, teachers, swim coach and friends is almost tangible throughout the book.
Anyone struggling or knowing someone who struggles with mental health can easily relate to not only Lizzie, but others in the book who just want her to be happy and healthy. The story gives comfort and let's you know that there is light at the end of the tunnel, no matter how dark it went. The story also shows the importance of a few good friends.
While not a romance, Keil adds a loveable friend in Ethan who is the ideal "book boyfriend" next door. You can't help but love him for all he does as a friend to Lizzie.
Far from the Surface is a rollercoaster through the ups and downs of teenage expectations and the pressures to live to a certain standard. Heartbreaking and awe inspiring all wrapped up in one emotion-inducing ride.
February 22, 2021
I don´t think I have the right words to express how much I love this book. It´s so good, so real; I cried a lot, I specially love how you can feel all the emotions Lizzie had and it´s like you´re experiencing everything just by reading the book, at least that´s how I felt or maybe it just that it made my demons more real and made me want to fight them back.
This book is so different from other books from Danielle because this one is not a romance novel, it´s more about believing in yourself again and that sometimes getting help is not a bad thing, that mental illnes is more common than we think and we should always trust someone else to tell them what´s happening in our heads and to get the help we need, to finally get out of the darkness we´re living in.
It does has like a little bit of romance but it´s more like a really good friendship that it could maybe be more, you´re going to love Ethan, he´s amazing, so patient and so helpful towards Lizzie.
I 100% reccomend this book, it´s just amazing and I think everyone should read it.
This book is so different from other books from Danielle because this one is not a romance novel, it´s more about believing in yourself again and that sometimes getting help is not a bad thing, that mental illnes is more common than we think and we should always trust someone else to tell them what´s happening in our heads and to get the help we need, to finally get out of the darkness we´re living in.
It does has like a little bit of romance but it´s more like a really good friendship that it could maybe be more, you´re going to love Ethan, he´s amazing, so patient and so helpful towards Lizzie.
I 100% reccomend this book, it´s just amazing and I think everyone should read it.
May 8, 2021
Just WOW
So I read the novella before this so I knew that I was already in love with Danielle's writing.
Her take on mental health specifically anxiety and depression was so on the nose. A lot of authors shy away from the brutal truth that is spiraling depression. Danielle did not. She gave an honest and real representation that I truly appreciate.
Now as far as plot goes, there isn't a huge plot other then focusing on Lizzie and her mental state.
I was not bothered by this fact because I too struggle with depression and anxiety, and feeling seen and heard in this book keep me hooked.
I will say the friendships in this were also a huge plot point. She really showed so much in these friendships. She was able to show that Lizzie had some really great people surrounding her but that doesn't always fix everything. Sometimes that strength you need to pull yourself from the darkness comes from within as well as with help.
I will list trigger warnings below that may result in some spoilers.
TW:
suicide,selfharm,depression,anxiety,abuse
So I read the novella before this so I knew that I was already in love with Danielle's writing.
Her take on mental health specifically anxiety and depression was so on the nose. A lot of authors shy away from the brutal truth that is spiraling depression. Danielle did not. She gave an honest and real representation that I truly appreciate.
Now as far as plot goes, there isn't a huge plot other then focusing on Lizzie and her mental state.
I was not bothered by this fact because I too struggle with depression and anxiety, and feeling seen and heard in this book keep me hooked.
I will say the friendships in this were also a huge plot point. She really showed so much in these friendships. She was able to show that Lizzie had some really great people surrounding her but that doesn't always fix everything. Sometimes that strength you need to pull yourself from the darkness comes from within as well as with help.
I will list trigger warnings below that may result in some spoilers.
TW:
suicide,selfharm,depression,anxiety,abuse
February 10, 2021
Wow. Such an inspiring, raw, REAL story. I knew going in that this would likely be a tough story for me to read after knowing the trigger warning topics (self harm, suicide attempts, etc). The author shares that much of Lizzies story came from personal experiences she faced in high school, and I related so much to that. I had to put the book down at times and take breaks bc it got heavy on my heart reliving those feelings...but the message was clear. Don't give up, there is hope, and you can overcome! The feelings and emotions Lizzie goes through are so real world. And it saddens me to know so many others have experienced this kind of pain and struggle. This is a story I won't soon forget. I love the integration with the camp crew, and the message that there is always support there even if you try and shut it out. Must read! I am looking forward to the rest of this series. This was a fantastic start!!
February 27, 2021
Lizzie's story is heartbreaking. I could feel her pain as I was reading her story. Mental illness, anxiety, and stress are real life problems that affect children and teens as well as adults. The book does have trigger warnings but I feel.it is a must read book. I really identified with Lizzie's anxiety, panic attacks, and self-harm. As Lizzie finds out healing is possible but it takes time. I wish I had an Ethan and Ray when I needed help. This is a must read book for young adults and adults. Danielle Keil shared that Lizzie's story was based on her own history. A big lesson from this book is it is okay to need help just never give up. Healing can and will happen if you give it a chance and let others help you.
February 13, 2021
This book is so heartbreakingly beautiful ❤️ If you've ever struggled with anxiety, stress or even just felt like you have too much on your plate you need to read this book. Danielle Keil nails the overwhelming pressure of trying to be who everyone around you wants you to be and tells Lizzie's story with so much understanding and compassion. You can feel the author's heart breaking for Lizzie through the words on the page.
I can't recommend this book, this series, enough!
I can't recommend this book, this series, enough!
February 18, 2021
I waited to post && review this book publicly until today. It’s release day as you guys know and if you know me. I’m big into reading arcs, specifically young adult arcs.
First I would like to thank both Danielle, who wrote this book and Brittany, who sent me the info for today. I enjoyed joining the street team for the release, sadly as I emailed- I didn’t get anything except the arc until today.
The arc was beyond amazing. It is so fast paced a beautifully written. I love how detailed it is. And I hope whenever my kindle quits being bipolar, I’ll have my highlights and notes posted!
First I would like to thank both Danielle, who wrote this book and Brittany, who sent me the info for today. I enjoyed joining the street team for the release, sadly as I emailed- I didn’t get anything except the arc until today.
The arc was beyond amazing. It is so fast paced a beautifully written. I love how detailed it is. And I hope whenever my kindle quits being bipolar, I’ll have my highlights and notes posted!
February 15, 2021
*Start with book 1, Secrets of the Summer*
This full-length book is the first in the series (after the novella) and follows swimmer Lizzie. Her story is full of real-life issues, angst and some themes that may make some people uncomfortable, but things that need to be discussed.
If you like hard-hitting YA stories, this is a wonderful series to get started on!
This full-length book is the first in the series (after the novella) and follows swimmer Lizzie. Her story is full of real-life issues, angst and some themes that may make some people uncomfortable, but things that need to be discussed.
If you like hard-hitting YA stories, this is a wonderful series to get started on!
February 18, 2021
The depth of emotion in this book is absolutely amazing. Danielle Keil does such a great job delving into those emotional turmoils of high school life and expectations and had me crying multiple times. I wish this book has been around when I was in schools, it really would have resonated so well with what I and every other teenager deals with day to day. Cannot wait until we get the other stores!
February 13, 2021
This novel follows Lizzie, a sixteen year old girl struggling with balancing her high school grades, competitive swimming career, and a tumultuous home life. Keil paints a realistic picture of the stresses that apply to many teenagers today, and the depiction of Lizzie's desperation to keep up appearances, even with her closest friends, is wholly believable. The novel tackles several sensitive issues, which is done tactfully, yet authentically.
What really comes across from this book, however, is Keil's ability to write about teenage friendship; the isolation that comes along with self-harm and abuse is touched on for a teenage audience, and the overall message to check on your friends is clear.
The adult characters could have been fleshed out more (in particular, Lizzie's mother), and some of the stereotyped YA characters were out in force, but on the whole this is a compelling novel that will appeal to a wide teenage readership.
I recieved an ARC of this novel in return for an honest review.
What really comes across from this book, however, is Keil's ability to write about teenage friendship; the isolation that comes along with self-harm and abuse is touched on for a teenage audience, and the overall message to check on your friends is clear.
The adult characters could have been fleshed out more (in particular, Lizzie's mother), and some of the stereotyped YA characters were out in force, but on the whole this is a compelling novel that will appeal to a wide teenage readership.
I recieved an ARC of this novel in return for an honest review.
April 5, 2021
TW: Physical Abuse
Book 2 in this series is all about Lizzie. Lizzie's father abandoned her and her mother 3years earlier, the abuse Lizzie's mother doles out gets worse. The most important thing in Lizzie's life is swimming. I like Lizzie and i feel so bad for her. I like drama but not the kind Lizzie has to deal with. Wow, i so wish i could just in this book and slap her mother. I'm glad Lizzie has such wonderful friends. Lizzie's story is heartbreaking but so worth telling. I hope you all will read it.
Book 2 in this series is all about Lizzie. Lizzie's father abandoned her and her mother 3years earlier, the abuse Lizzie's mother doles out gets worse. The most important thing in Lizzie's life is swimming. I like Lizzie and i feel so bad for her. I like drama but not the kind Lizzie has to deal with. Wow, i so wish i could just in this book and slap her mother. I'm glad Lizzie has such wonderful friends. Lizzie's story is heartbreaking but so worth telling. I hope you all will read it.
March 22, 2021
I am part of Danielle Keil ARC team so I got this through her team. And this book was so amazing and real. This book hit some real life taboo subject like Mental illness,anxiety and Stress. Mrs Keil hit book out of the park. I felt for Lizzie because I been a Lizzie and still am at times. You just wanted to hug her and tell her it will be oh ok. Great Job Danielle.
April 8, 2022
Eye opening read .
I was so happy to see there was a bright light for lizzie. All of the darkness that she suffered within herself it was heartbreaking. As a parent though I felt her mother should have been more in tune with her as she was the root of most of the issues .
I was so happy to see there was a bright light for lizzie. All of the darkness that she suffered within herself it was heartbreaking. As a parent though I felt her mother should have been more in tune with her as she was the root of most of the issues .
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May 5, 2021review to come
April 17, 2025
Everything will eventually get better.
April 12, 2021
This book was a quick read. Very emotional and dived into the myriad of emotions Lizzie undergoes. Her growth had me in tears.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews