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Romani Redd: Stripped
Compliance is not part of Sloane Gáspár Barzetti’s nature—after all, she is a descendant of the great Romani sorcerer, Django Gáspár. Just like Django, Sloane embodies the magical ingredient the Gáspárs call it—the ability to acquire psychic knowledge without explanation. Knowing things she has no business knowing is normal for Sloane, but just as a Tarot seer predicts, ordinary isn’t in the cards. It is hardwired into the fourteen-year-old Americanized Romani just as it is prevalent in the Gáspár bloodline.
Forced into visitation with her narcissistic father and his controlling girlfriend, team Barzetti aggressively looks for new ways to make Sloane’s life miserable. As their games progress, Sloane begins to experience a new level of the mystical it. Sloane must rise up and understand the force that lies within her. Embracing her prophesied destiny may be catastrophic. The question is, catastrophic for whom?
Forced into visitation with her narcissistic father and his controlling girlfriend, team Barzetti aggressively looks for new ways to make Sloane’s life miserable. As their games progress, Sloane begins to experience a new level of the mystical it. Sloane must rise up and understand the force that lies within her. Embracing her prophesied destiny may be catastrophic. The question is, catastrophic for whom?
248 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 9, 2022
4 people are currently reading
5191 people want to read
About the author
Cindy Summer
1 book24 followersCindy Summer, a practicing psychic medium, knew there was truth to the rumor that her family had Romani blood. Captivated by their plight, Cindy was called to shine a spotlight on those who have been dismissed throughout history as being irrelevant. Her mission, as an author, is to empower young adults to stand in their truth and be heard. Cindy wants her readers to know that they matter. Her spiritual practice is in Cleveland, Ohio, where she resides with her husband, Rocky. You can visit her online at cindysummerbooks.com and follow her on TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram @cindysummerauthor
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
January 8, 2023
For me, the story lacked focus. Even by the end, I'm not really sure what the story is about. Slaone is a 14-year-old Romani-American girl who has psychic gifts, as do the rest of her Romani family. The story is mostly about her frustration with her birth father and his girlfriend and a prediction early on in the book that her father would die (but not which father).
I loved the Romani culture parts of the story and the various psychic gifts they possessed. The story was easy to read, and the pacing was pretty good.
The most frustrating part of the novel is that it is told entirely in first person but from different points of view, but no indication of who it is. I don't want to have to puzzle out who the character is. The second chapter completely confused me because for the longest time I thought it was Sloane ten or twenty years in the future, but it was her mother. I didn't really connect with any of the characters.
The story also had too many details and backstory that had no impact on the plot, though some of it was interesting. There were issues I expected to get resolved that did not. Actually, nothing was resolved.
I think people who are fascinated with Romani culture will like the book and those who don't mind a more distant type of storytelling. I think this story has a retro vibe, like a story told fifty or more years ago. So, if you like older fiction, this might be a good book for you too.
I loved the Romani culture parts of the story and the various psychic gifts they possessed. The story was easy to read, and the pacing was pretty good.
The most frustrating part of the novel is that it is told entirely in first person but from different points of view, but no indication of who it is. I don't want to have to puzzle out who the character is. The second chapter completely confused me because for the longest time I thought it was Sloane ten or twenty years in the future, but it was her mother. I didn't really connect with any of the characters.
The story also had too many details and backstory that had no impact on the plot, though some of it was interesting. There were issues I expected to get resolved that did not. Actually, nothing was resolved.
I think people who are fascinated with Romani culture will like the book and those who don't mind a more distant type of storytelling. I think this story has a retro vibe, like a story told fifty or more years ago. So, if you like older fiction, this might be a good book for you too.
September 8, 2022
I loved reading this incredibly enchanting debut from Cindy Summer! Besides the plot being non-stop, I would say the best part of the book were the themes. Teenagers (and adults) will absolutely identify with the main character's journey to find herself and her voice in an environment that tries to silence her. Five stars!
October 27, 2022
I really liked the book . Sloane is a well developed character and I enjoyed watching her journey of self discovery. I can relate to the themes of psychic powers/energy healing etc.
I couldn't book the book down and I think it's great for ALL ages.
You will not regret reading Summer's book!
I couldn't book the book down and I think it's great for ALL ages.
You will not regret reading Summer's book!
November 11, 2022
Thank you Cindy Summer, Amplify Publishing / Mascot Books and Netgalley for this free ARC in exchange for a review.
Here's something to change in the final version; twice near the end of Chapter 6, sentences (and possibly paragraphs) are left unfinished. It's a little confusing, so it doesn't effect the book in general.
The book held my attention. I liked that the point of view changes between different characters.
I'm not sure what to think of the shocking actions of the protagonist, contrasted with her excited behaviour at the end. If .
I'm guessing from that ending that this is the first book in the series, and if so, I'm on board for book 2.
Here's something to change in the final version; twice near the end of Chapter 6, sentences (and possibly paragraphs) are left unfinished. It's a little confusing, so it doesn't effect the book in general.
The book held my attention. I liked that the point of view changes between different characters.
I'm not sure what to think of the shocking actions of the protagonist, contrasted with her excited behaviour at the end. If .
I'm guessing from that ending that this is the first book in the series, and if so, I'm on board for book 2.
March 18, 2023
Romani Redd cover art’s pretty neat and the synopsis seems interesting. I like the concept of the book, but the execution is confusing and seems unfinished. The pacing felt slow and disjointed. It’s not what I expected. You do learn about Romani culture and customs.
Told by many viewpoints and it was hard to tell who was who. This book feels like a hospital drama and a custody battle with Romani culture/ psychic abilities thrown in. It feels like a set-up for a second book but… it just ends. Abruptly. Right as it was getting exciting.
It ends on a cliffhanger and leaves unanswered questions. I would read the sequel if it did have one because it has a lot of potential to explore Sloane’s abilities and other characters. Her powers felt underused and I wish they were more/ better explored. I won this book via Goodreads Giveaway.
Told by many viewpoints and it was hard to tell who was who. This book feels like a hospital drama and a custody battle with Romani culture/ psychic abilities thrown in. It feels like a set-up for a second book but… it just ends. Abruptly. Right as it was getting exciting.
It ends on a cliffhanger and leaves unanswered questions. I would read the sequel if it did have one because it has a lot of potential to explore Sloane’s abilities and other characters. Her powers felt underused and I wish they were more/ better explored. I won this book via Goodreads Giveaway.
June 14, 2023
I thought this was an enjoyable read! Most practicing psychic-mediums stick to nonfiction topics such as how to develop your own psychic abilities or what it's like to have and use them. Cindy Summer has tried her hand at a fictional account instead and one geared towards young adults, which I think is great! Young adults tend to have open minds, and so being introduced to positive characters who possess these abilities will help them see these spiritual practices in a positive light and perhaps make them curious about exploring their own gifts. The world is a better place when people embrace their connection to spirit!
I also LOVE that she wove Romani culture and history into the story! I can't think of another fiction story that includes Romani characters, at least that are written about respectfully. Our culture usually portrays them as scary looking fortune tellers or untrustworthy "gypsies." Here we see them as loving, funny, family oriented people who are open to and comfortable with their psychic gifts. I would have liked the author to have explained more about how and why they suffered persecution throughout history. She alludes to it throughout the story but never goes into much detail. It's such a great opportunity to help young people learn about this largely misunderstood people and why they have suffered so much. It would also be fascinating to have other facts included in the story, such as where did they originate and how did that influence them to embrace spirituality and psychic awareness so much more openly and consistently than so many other cultures? Also, she spends a fair amount of time describing their colorful attire and jewelry, which left me wanting to know where, geographically, did that attire come from (the bangles and long skirts, etc.). It's interesting that so many of the Romani people are so attached to their traditional attire that they never abandoned it over the centuries, in spite of moving to so many different parts of the world. It is clearly a major part of their identity. Obviously, as a fictional story, the author wouldn't spend an inordinate amount of time on these aspects but finding a way to weave in some explanation of these things would enrich the story, in my opinion.
I suppose my main criticism of the book would be that I would like to see more complexity built into some of the characters, as some are too simplistic (all good or all bad). It's hard to get hooked into a character if they aren't really believable as people. Tony and Ivy come to mind specifically. While narcissists do tend to be destructive personalities, there should still be more details given as to what issues led to the deep anger between Tony and Sloane. It's hard to understand Sloane's seemingly over-the-top reactions to him when we know so little about the back story. Ivy too seems one-dimensional. I'd be curious to know a bit of her back-story, again so maybe I could see her as a multi-dimensional real person rather than a caricature of a selfish mean girl.
I was also unsure why the stepdad's illness was in the story, but based on the cliffhanger ending, I'm assuming that'll end up being explained in a sequel. After all, the prophecy hasn't come to pass YET, and it leaves me interested to find out how it plays out!
My favorite aspects of the book were, again, the exploration of what it is to be open to our spiritual gifts. How they can come naturally but also how they should be carefully developed so as not to overwhelm a person. I liked Sloane's strong character - she makes a good role model for other teen girls (although I'm curious how the violent outbursts can be explained in the next book, as it does end up making her seem pretty dangerous. Those episodes seemed like over-the-top responses due to not understanding why her anger is as deeply felt as it is).
I like the psychiatrist in the story and how he is open, as a scientist, to the possibilities of psychic phenomena, such as near death experiences.
The mom and Noelle were also strong female characters, all with the "gift." I'd like to learn more about their stories too.
And, as I said, I like the positive story of the Romani people, especially in a book written for a young audience, as they have been so long negatively stereotyped in our culture. It's refreshing to see them portrayed otherwise!
Lastly, I thought the "cliff hanger" ending was good, as I think there could be some major positive direction coming in Sloane's life. At least that was the impression I was left with.
I'm looking forward to the next book in the series!
I also LOVE that she wove Romani culture and history into the story! I can't think of another fiction story that includes Romani characters, at least that are written about respectfully. Our culture usually portrays them as scary looking fortune tellers or untrustworthy "gypsies." Here we see them as loving, funny, family oriented people who are open to and comfortable with their psychic gifts. I would have liked the author to have explained more about how and why they suffered persecution throughout history. She alludes to it throughout the story but never goes into much detail. It's such a great opportunity to help young people learn about this largely misunderstood people and why they have suffered so much. It would also be fascinating to have other facts included in the story, such as where did they originate and how did that influence them to embrace spirituality and psychic awareness so much more openly and consistently than so many other cultures? Also, she spends a fair amount of time describing their colorful attire and jewelry, which left me wanting to know where, geographically, did that attire come from (the bangles and long skirts, etc.). It's interesting that so many of the Romani people are so attached to their traditional attire that they never abandoned it over the centuries, in spite of moving to so many different parts of the world. It is clearly a major part of their identity. Obviously, as a fictional story, the author wouldn't spend an inordinate amount of time on these aspects but finding a way to weave in some explanation of these things would enrich the story, in my opinion.
I suppose my main criticism of the book would be that I would like to see more complexity built into some of the characters, as some are too simplistic (all good or all bad). It's hard to get hooked into a character if they aren't really believable as people. Tony and Ivy come to mind specifically. While narcissists do tend to be destructive personalities, there should still be more details given as to what issues led to the deep anger between Tony and Sloane. It's hard to understand Sloane's seemingly over-the-top reactions to him when we know so little about the back story. Ivy too seems one-dimensional. I'd be curious to know a bit of her back-story, again so maybe I could see her as a multi-dimensional real person rather than a caricature of a selfish mean girl.
I was also unsure why the stepdad's illness was in the story, but based on the cliffhanger ending, I'm assuming that'll end up being explained in a sequel. After all, the prophecy hasn't come to pass YET, and it leaves me interested to find out how it plays out!
My favorite aspects of the book were, again, the exploration of what it is to be open to our spiritual gifts. How they can come naturally but also how they should be carefully developed so as not to overwhelm a person. I liked Sloane's strong character - she makes a good role model for other teen girls (although I'm curious how the violent outbursts can be explained in the next book, as it does end up making her seem pretty dangerous. Those episodes seemed like over-the-top responses due to not understanding why her anger is as deeply felt as it is).
I like the psychiatrist in the story and how he is open, as a scientist, to the possibilities of psychic phenomena, such as near death experiences.
The mom and Noelle were also strong female characters, all with the "gift." I'd like to learn more about their stories too.
And, as I said, I like the positive story of the Romani people, especially in a book written for a young audience, as they have been so long negatively stereotyped in our culture. It's refreshing to see them portrayed otherwise!
Lastly, I thought the "cliff hanger" ending was good, as I think there could be some major positive direction coming in Sloane's life. At least that was the impression I was left with.
I'm looking forward to the next book in the series!
November 18, 2022
*ARC provided by Netgalley in return for honest feedback*
I'm going to feel incredibly guilty being the first to leave a three-star review on Goodreads for this book (Honestly, my official rating is 2.5, but I rounded up).
Before I begin, I want to state that getting your book published is an incredibly difficult thing. You should be proud of yourself, and don't let my commentary get you down. You're learning the ropes, and this is your first novel. So, congratulations, and I wish you many great reviews and can't wait to read your future books and see how you grow!
Now... into the not-so-fun part. I felt like the writing needed a bit of work. There were some places that didn't connect, fundamental parts that felt like they needed to be included or completed, and areas where the writing style shifted a bit too much for my liking.
I also personally do not enjoy accents written phonetically. This form of accent writing can be highly offensive and often showcases stereotypes that aren't always in a positive light. (I should additionally note that I do not speak the accents showcased in this novel, so I cannot speak for people who do. -- However, I do know I wouldn't want to read a book that says, "I warshed da clothes today." instead of "I washed the clothes today").
The only other note I had was that I wish there was more of a backstory toward the beginning of the novel. I almost DNF'd the book because I had no clue what was going on and felt like I was reading a sequel to a series (& yes, I did double-check on Goodreads to see if there was a book before this one).
Overall, your writing has excellent potential, and the plot was to the most part enjoyable. But as Uncle Ben says in the Spiderman universe, "With great power comes a great responsibility."
I'm going to feel incredibly guilty being the first to leave a three-star review on Goodreads for this book (Honestly, my official rating is 2.5, but I rounded up).
Before I begin, I want to state that getting your book published is an incredibly difficult thing. You should be proud of yourself, and don't let my commentary get you down. You're learning the ropes, and this is your first novel. So, congratulations, and I wish you many great reviews and can't wait to read your future books and see how you grow!
Now... into the not-so-fun part. I felt like the writing needed a bit of work. There were some places that didn't connect, fundamental parts that felt like they needed to be included or completed, and areas where the writing style shifted a bit too much for my liking.
I also personally do not enjoy accents written phonetically. This form of accent writing can be highly offensive and often showcases stereotypes that aren't always in a positive light. (I should additionally note that I do not speak the accents showcased in this novel, so I cannot speak for people who do. -- However, I do know I wouldn't want to read a book that says, "I warshed da clothes today." instead of "I washed the clothes today").
The only other note I had was that I wish there was more of a backstory toward the beginning of the novel. I almost DNF'd the book because I had no clue what was going on and felt like I was reading a sequel to a series (& yes, I did double-check on Goodreads to see if there was a book before this one).
Overall, your writing has excellent potential, and the plot was to the most part enjoyable. But as Uncle Ben says in the Spiderman universe, "With great power comes a great responsibility."
December 29, 2022
Debut author, Cindy Summer, has written a fascinating novel in the young adult genre. Not only is it the young adult genre, but it will reach beyond to many adults who will feel enlightened while reading the captivating and intriguing story. How refreshing it is that the readers will be introduced to a rare and engaging story of Romani culture. I suspect this intricate knowledge of the Romanis and its blended family introduced in the novel is more than just a researched and inspired story. It feels as it is close for comfort to Ms.Summer’s heart. The twisting and turning plot develops intricately as it reveals the loyal dedication of not only a young teenager, but four generations of a Romani clan’s devotion to their heritage. Main character young Sloane adapts to and develops her gift she has inherited called the “It”, all the while coping with normal teenager growing pains, especially with her conflicting relationship with her non-Romani biological father. While not giving away too much of the story, this is a refreshing tale of a legacy that has not yet touched the publishing market of the Romani people and their history of a special culture. The young main character, Sloane, leads the reader through a series of events that lead up to a climactic “surreal” experience. While not risking a spoiler, it is absolute to say the reader will be enthralled with the chain of events that lead to a completely ironic ending. Ms. Summer KNOWS how to keep the reader coming back for more, and come back for more you shall. Bravo Ms. Summer for introducing Romani Redd to audiences craving more than the average read!
Linda J. Wagner
Linda J. Wagner
December 20, 2022
I absolutely loved this book! It was hard to put down once I started reading. I really liked having the perspectives of each character, not many authors do this. I was able to put myself in each character's "shoes". Normally, I get stuck on one character, but this made the whole book come together. It made you feel like you knew each character. It was also fun to try and guess the character before they were revealed.
I also really enjoyed all the psychic abilities in this book. I am intrigued by people with these sorts of gifts and I am a full believer. The things that happened throughout the book were fascinating.
This book is also good for adolescents as they have to go through the growing pains of figuring out who they are. I think they could easily relate to Sloane.
I cannot wait for the sequel and hopefully a movie one day!!
I also really enjoyed all the psychic abilities in this book. I am intrigued by people with these sorts of gifts and I am a full believer. The things that happened throughout the book were fascinating.
This book is also good for adolescents as they have to go through the growing pains of figuring out who they are. I think they could easily relate to Sloane.
I cannot wait for the sequel and hopefully a movie one day!!
September 15, 2022
I thought it was a really good book over all. It is good for any teen, young adult or grown up who likes magic-like healings using energy (which is really cool.) I thought the book was very well-written, and the details were very descriptive.
Sloane is a very well-written and relatable character. She is very real, like, she could be a real person. It’s a very good story and teaches us how important family and accepting yourself can be. PS- I hate Tony 😡 he’s awful. He’s also well written though, even if he’s bad. All of the characters are so well made, and they all seem like real people that we could go outside and see.
Sloane is a very well-written and relatable character. She is very real, like, she could be a real person. It’s a very good story and teaches us how important family and accepting yourself can be. PS- I hate Tony 😡 he’s awful. He’s also well written though, even if he’s bad. All of the characters are so well made, and they all seem like real people that we could go outside and see.
September 7, 2022
Sloane is the main character, who is 14 years old. She is learning to deal with the family dynamics of having an uncaring biological father and his self-serving girlfriend. Sloane is just learning that she had a powerful gift. The book details how she unwittingly unleashed her inner psychic power and the repercussions that follow.
This book is meant for young adults, however I really enjoyed reading it and finished it in 2 days. Once I started reading, I found it hard to put the book down. I see a lot of Cindy's personality in the characters she wrote about.
This book is meant for young adults, however I really enjoyed reading it and finished it in 2 days. Once I started reading, I found it hard to put the book down. I see a lot of Cindy's personality in the characters she wrote about.
November 18, 2022
Loved this book! The author weaves a story of young girl finding her way through challenging situations while using humor and a storyline that unfolds in unexpected twists and turns. It is written in a way that you can actually feel what it is like to be psychic through the eyes of the Sloane Barzetti and the Gaspar family. The book brings to light the interesting history of the Romani people with validation and respect. A great read for both young adults and mature adults. Can't wait for book number 2!
December 3, 2022
What a fascinating world Ms Summer has created around Sloane and the whole Gaspar family! While I was hooked by the subject matter, especially the healing and psychic abilities of Sloane and her mother, I quickly found myself drawn into the history and contemporary world of the Romani people (to me a mark of a wonderful book that has gripped my mind and imagination).
I highly recommend this book for readers of all ages, you won't be disappointed! And I look forward to more titles from this author, especially a sequel to the amazing life of Sloane Gaspar Barzetti!
I highly recommend this book for readers of all ages, you won't be disappointed! And I look forward to more titles from this author, especially a sequel to the amazing life of Sloane Gaspar Barzetti!
March 1, 2024
This was a very different read for me. It was nice to get a story that wasn't all about how you can't trust certain groups. This book was a nice change. It's written with a first person POV and would definitely be a part of the young adult genre. Sloane is the main character and she is trying to figure out things as a 14 year old girl.
The parts dealing with Romani culture were interesting and I enjoyed reading about it. The book overall was very good. I give it a 3.5 star if I could use that rating.
The parts dealing with Romani culture were interesting and I enjoyed reading about it. The book overall was very good. I give it a 3.5 star if I could use that rating.
October 6, 2022
This book was written by my cousins daughter who herself is intuitive with a special gift. And I can't help but think that some of the book reflects her background. It amazes me, it is captivating, it is something that you could see happening and I have great difficulty putting the book down. Have watched this beautiful young lady grow up and have had no idea that she was capable of writing a book.
November 30, 2022
I just finished Romani Redd: Stripped. I loved it!!! So intriguing. So captivating! I could see every place, every character, and every action so clearly! The author paints with words!!
I have so many questions about the characters with where they go from here!!!! Ah!!!!! I hope book installment #2 is already underway! I can honestly see this turning into a movie series. For real. Job well done!!
I have so many questions about the characters with where they go from here!!!! Ah!!!!! I hope book installment #2 is already underway! I can honestly see this turning into a movie series. For real. Job well done!!
December 18, 2022
I love how each chapter is in 1st person so you get each characters perspective. The camaraderie and strength of this family joined with their incredible psychic abilities kept me engaged and unable to put this book down! The only issue I have is now I'm done and waiting on book 2! I have had the pleasure of experiencing the authors own psychic abilities through several readings at her spiritual practice and now see her abilities extend into being a talented author as well!
October 9, 2022
I loved the characters. Each chapter made me want to read the next. I really couldn't put the book down. I would highly reccomend this book to anyone, great for readers of all ages. I can't wait for the next book!!
October 8, 2022
Very good read. Loved the characters and the story.
November 18, 2022
This was such a good book! Interesting situations that captured your attention and even some whaaaattt?! moments.
July 27, 2023
This is not my favorite genre, so I had a hard time staying focused on the storyline.
I won a copy from Goodreads.
I won a copy from Goodreads.
September 7, 2023
In this delightful book that weaves together family and the culture of spirituality, the author has created rich storytelling and characters. This is a must read for all.
December 27, 2023
Interesting story intertwining fantasy with history and current lives of the Romani. I know that the Romani are very misunderstood, and if this helps the next generation understand, more power to them. I would recommend it for middle/high school aged readers.
January 7, 2023
enter the world of the Romani
Take a trip inside the world of the Romani people. It is a world filled with colorful clothes, festivities and magic. The story starts off with Sloan Gaspar an eighth grade Romani female student, going to a tarot reading at a Romani owned occult shop. It is there that Sloan gets a reading that will lead to eventual changes in her life. Sloan is an “A” student who wins a debate against a star student over the legalization of marijuana.
At home her mother is an actuary and her step father is deathly ill. Her real father Tony is a loser who is with a loser girl friend. Sloan does not like either of them. Tony is a constant source of problem . Things take a dramatic turn when the step father presses legal issue for child visitation rights and her stepfather needs to go to the hospital.
During the trials at the hospital Sloan receives an injury and is put into a coma. It is at this time that her powers begin to awaken.
Take a trip inside the world of the Romani people. It is a world filled with colorful clothes, festivities and magic. The story starts off with Sloan Gaspar an eighth grade Romani female student, going to a tarot reading at a Romani owned occult shop. It is there that Sloan gets a reading that will lead to eventual changes in her life. Sloan is an “A” student who wins a debate against a star student over the legalization of marijuana.
At home her mother is an actuary and her step father is deathly ill. Her real father Tony is a loser who is with a loser girl friend. Sloan does not like either of them. Tony is a constant source of problem . Things take a dramatic turn when the step father presses legal issue for child visitation rights and her stepfather needs to go to the hospital.
During the trials at the hospital Sloan receives an injury and is put into a coma. It is at this time that her powers begin to awaken.
October 17, 2023
Romani Red is the story of a young girl whos magical abilities quickly become more than what her family expects.She finds hherself at odds with her father and his girlfriend who do all they can to make her life miserable. But her abillities continue to grow and she knows things that she has no business knowing. A foretold destiny awaites her she just has to reach out and take it.
I want tothank #Netgalley for the oppertunity to read #RomaniRed in return for a fair and honest review.
I want tothank #Netgalley for the oppertunity to read #RomaniRed in return for a fair and honest review.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews