After the Woods by Kim Savage Published by Farrar, Straus and Giroux on 2/23/16
Genres: Young Adult, Contemporary, Mysteries
Pages: 320
Source: Blog Tour
My rating:
Would you risk your life to save your best friend?
Julia did. When a paroled predator attacked Liv in the woods, Julia fought back and got caught. Liv ran, leaving Julia in the woods for a terrifying 48 hours that she remembers only in flashbacks. One year later, Liv seems bent on self-destruction, starving herself, doing drugs, and hooking up with a violent new boyfriend. A dead girl turns up in those same woods, and Julia’s memories resurface alongside clues unearthed by an ambitious reporter that link the girl to Julia’s abductor. As the devastating truth becomes clear, Julia realizes that after the woods was just the beginning.
This was the most fun I’ve ever had with a blog tour! The traveling ARC idea is phenomenal, especially with a book with a central mystery like this one. Take a look at the map above to see where this ARC went for the tour! (The big book shows the path that it took after it left me.)
It was so much fun to read the comments that had been left by the bloggers before me! Plus, usually with a book like this, I don’t have any way of discussing all of my predictions about how everything’s going to unfold. But, for the traveling ARC, it was great fun to document those predictions and let someone else know how close I was! So, at the end of the book, I wrote bullet points showing what I thought was going to happen (and then I hid them and told the next blogger not to peek until after she finished the book!). I was right in some cases, but definitely missed some key points that made for an enthralling ending – a fantastic combination for a mystery, in my opinion.
Now on to my actual review of the book.
After the Woods was an intriguing mystery that held my attention from start to finish. Julia has blocked out much of the harrowing experience of being abducted when she tried to save her best friend, and she would do anything to put the pieces back together. Everyone seems to think that she should try to put the experience behind her and move on with her life, but Julia can’t just let it go without answers. But what she discovers is more shocking than she ever imagined.
What Fed My Addiction:
- Julia. I LOVED Julia! She was the perfect blend of smart and snarky. And she never came off as being irritating because her sometimes snide attitude was so well-earned. Everyone seemed to want her to move past her kidnapping, but how could she? How could she simply act like her life wasn’t completely changed in that moment? I was fascinated by Julia’s altered perspective on life after her abduction – how moments that would seem easy and innocent to most of us took on a dark and threatening tone to Julia. How casual conversation could turn awkward so quickly. I truly felt for Julia, and I connected with her because I could understand her motivation.
- The romance. While this book wasn’t primarily about the romance, it was an additional element that added to overall story, and I was a big fan of Kellan and Julia together. They had a natural sort of chemistry that made me grin and I thought that they complemented each other perfectly!
- The mystery. As you can see from my long list of notes in the picture above, I was having great fun making predictions about this book. For a little while I was nervous that I was going to have it all figured out way too early in the game, but there were some HUGE surprises toward the end that completely threw me! Sure, I had deduced a few things about Julia’s mysterious abduction, but certainly not everything. To me, that’s the perfect mixture, and it’s the type of mystery that keeps me flipping the pages!
What Left Me Wanting More:
- Liv. Honestly, I had to think for a while before I could even come up with a negative about this book, but I guess if I had to list something it would be that Liv’s actions didn’t make complete sense to me. Even once I knew her motivations, I wasn’t completely clear on how she expected things to work. And, as best friends go, she was NOT winning any awards. That’s all I’ll say, though, because otherwise I’d be spoiling things. (UPDATE: Savage informed me via FB that we “may hear Liv’s side of things in the very near future!” I look forward to it!)
If you’re looking for an exciting YA mystery packed with intrigue and surprises, I highly recommend this book! I know I’ll be watching for more of Savage’s books in the future because this was a fantastic debut! I give it 5/5 stars.
***Disclosure: I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
Favorite Quotes:
I thought I’d feature a couple of quotes that highlighted Julia’s snarkiness. These two quotes take place when Julia is talking to her psych. I’m putting in pictures of the actual book, so you can see our underlines and notes.
And a few more fun pics I took:
READ A SNEAK PEAK FROM THE PROLOGUE OF AFTER THE WOODS
About the Author
Kim Savage is the author of AFTER THE WOODS, a debut psychological thriller for young adults coming on Feb 23, 2016 with Farrar, Straus and Giroux/Macmillan. Her second thriller for young adults comes from FSG is 2017. Before writing fiction, she worked as business journalist, pitching stories along the lines of “Stigmatized Properties: When Murder Kills Property Values”. You get the idea
Related Posts
66 responses to “After the Woods by Kim Savage – Traveling ARC Review, Favorite Quotes and Giveaway!”
Leave a Reply
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.
Oh how cool! I’ve always wanted to send a favourite book out all over the world and have the readers write, anoint, highlight, discuss the book amongst the receivers. I think it’s pretty nifty! It’ll be interesting to see the state of this ARC after the tour is done. 😀
…oh! and this book sounds cool as well. Lol!
Yes – I wish that I got the book back at the end so I could see everything. I’ve been following the tour so I can see what other people say about the traveling ARC!
This is such a fun idea. I love the traveling ARC thing. This book sounds so good. I am glad to hear you enjoyed it Nicole. Now I need to read it for myself.
Yes – I’d heard of a traveling ARC before, but never thought of the idea that people would write notes in it for the next person. It was so much fun!
Oooh nice! Hearing good things about this one! I love a good YA thriller/mystery and this sounds so incredible! I already have it on my wishlist so winning a copy would be awesome! Great review!!
For some reason, I’ve never been interested in thriller/mysteries, but I seem to like YA books in that genre. Go figure!
How cool does this book sound? honestly the blurb had me intrigued and then your review really got me eager to get my hands on a copy! Thriller and mystery is YA is a favourite of mine and the plot sounds so exciting!!
I hope you have a chance to read it!!
Fantastic review! I really want to read this one because I love psychological thrillers, especially in the YA genre because there aren’t as many. This touring ARC sounds fun; that’s great you were able to share thoughts with the next reader!
-Lauren
It was lots of fun!! I’d never heard of a tour like this before, but I really enjoyed it!
Liv was horrible! I enjoyed this book, and the mystery surrounding the kidnapping. I really enjoyed the MC! I am very much looking forward to reading another book by this author!
Yes, the MC was my favorite, as well – I was a big fan of her somewhat snarky wit!
Sounds like an amazing book! Like you said, mysteries are always fun to try and figure out. (And I especially love that gorgeous cover!!) Thanks for the review, Nicole. 🙂
It IS a fantastic cover! That was the first thing that caught my eye.
Wow what a cover! It totally had me intrigued from the get-go and the blurb sounds great! The blog tour sounds like it would’ve bee so fun and I’m glad you enjoyed!
Yes, a great book and the tour was tons of fun!!
omg a TRAVELLING ARC?!?!?! And you all wrote stuff in it?! THAT IS THE COOLEST THING I HAVE EVER HEARD!! *flails* And that awesomeness aside, I think the book sounds fantastic too! I kind of knew about it but hadn’t focused very much on it? But that cover = love. And this review = I need this book. XDXD
Yes, I’d never heard of such a thing, but it was SO much fun!!
This book looks so good! I really love the concept of the traveling ARC. What fun it must have been to read the notes that the others wrote. Great post!
Yes – check out the post at the end of the tour (on the Fierce Reads blog) and you can see what some people wrote – and some fun doodles!!
I have this book on my TBR because it just sounds so cool! I love the pictures you took by the way – very fitting for this one. The idea of all reading this book and leaving notes and so on all over the book is such a cool interactive way of reading this together!
My recent post: http://olivia-savannah.blogspot.nl/2016/02/dear-malala.html
Thanks for the compliments on my pictures – I always WANT to take pretty bookish pictures, but I don’t have a lot of photography skills yet. I was very happy with how these turned out, though!
I tried to do this with a friend and then life happened, and I sat on the book for months. I’m so glad she chose to stay my friend lol. I definitely want to try something like this again. AND a YA mystery worthy of five stars, definitely count me in!
Ha! I’m glad you’re still friends, too. I think it’s the type of thing that works better with a deadline. 🙂
I absolutely agree with your love for this one! I really enjoyed it. It was different than I thought it was going to be, but it didn’t matter, it was fabulous. But seriously,Liv is the actual worst. The traveling ARC thing… I did it once. And it made me sad. Because I didn’t get to keep the book, and I have issues with not having access to the book for reviews, and it was just sad making all around. So the situation is, I am too greedy for that, I think? ::Nods::
Ha! Okay, Shannon, well, I won’t try to make you do any traveling ARCs. Maybe you and I can just do some together sometime and you can have the book last! LOL!
A traveling arc is such a fabulous idea! It’s almost like a buddy read, being able to see what others have highlighted and their comments! Plus you get to leave your comments for the next person who gets the arc. Awwww, this is so neat! I’m so glad you had a lot of fun reading this book. The synopsis sounds terrifying to me *hides under blanket*, but that’s because my husband is traveling this week and I’m home alone with the boys. This book would make me hear noises in the middle of the night lol, but I’ll remember it for down the road!
Since most of this book took place after the abduction itself it wasn’t as creepy as it sounds – but it was a bit intense at times!
Great to know! Thank you, Nicole!
This sounds so awesome! The mystery sounds like something I’d really like, and the traveling ARC is such a fun idea! I would love to see other people’s favorite quotes and thoughts as they read 🙂
Yes, this is the most fun I’ve had on a blog tour!
I loooove me some mysteries and this sounds like an AWESOME one!! I can’t wait to read it!!
I loved your blog post about your ARC review of After the Woods. It was so much fun to read the comments that had been left by the bloggers before you. Plus, it was so much fun to see that you had been able to enjoy yourself throughout the whole blog tour! orthodontics willoughby
Put your thoughts comfy with questions you’ve got on your mind. Sometimes just gaining insights can do away with the tension and the tension out of your scenario. It is in uncertainty where assumptions are made and the wrong movement is taken or no action at all.phi phi island tour from phuket
Traveling can also be a great way to broaden your horizons, challenge yourself, and step out of your comfort zone. It can help you to develop new skills, learn new languages, and gain a deeper understanding of the world around you.eFlyto
Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast or simply looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, camping offers a great opportunity to connect with nature and unwind. As you explore the stunning scenery and take in the fresh air, you will discover a sense of peace and tranquility that can be hard to find elsewhere. Camping is an ideal way to spend quality time with family and friends, creating lasting memories and strengthening bonds.
So, whether you prefer to rough it out with a basic tent or enjoy the comforts of an RV, camping is a delightful way to get away from it all and experience the beauty of the great outdoors.Egypt
“Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that requires careful planning and preparation. Let our experienced team guide you through the process, from choosing the best route to packing the right gear. Visit our website to learn more about our personalized climbing tours.”Best Route to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro
Preparing ahead of time and being well-organized can undoubtedly improve your travel experience and guarantee a more hassle-free journey. Whether you are exploring a new city or country or embarking on a road trip to your favorite destinations, it is crucial to conduct thorough research, pack accordingly, and have all the essential information and supplies readily available.turismo dentale albania
HiCamping is a popular form of outdoor recreation where individuals or groups temporarily set up shelter in a designated outdoor location, such as a campsite or wilderness area. The range of camping options is vast, from basic tent camping to luxurious RV camping, and can be experienced in diverse environments like forests, mountains, deserts, and beaches. While camping, people can engage in various activities like hiking, fishing, boating, cooking over a campfire, and appreciating nature’s beauty. Camping provides a unique opportunity to disconnect from technology, spend quality time with loved ones, and rejuvenate in the fresh air of nature.Classic Israel Tour
Traveling grants individuals the chance to establish a deep connection with nature and uncover the splendor of the great outdoors. Whether one is a seasoned camper or a novice in the realm of outdoor adventures, camping presents a unique and enticing appeal for all. With a multitude of choices at hand, ranging from embracing the elements within a humble tent to indulging in a more lavish experience aboard an RV, the opportunities are boundless.sewa elf jakarta
Traveling holds the power to unveil unfamiliar languages, customs, and lifestyles that would otherwise remain foreign to us. It possesses the ability to challenge our preconceptions and expand our knowledge of the world we inhabit. Whether we embark on journeys to historical sites, immerse ourselves in culinary delights, or engage with the local people, traveling offers a multitude of distinctive experiences that contribute to a deep understanding and appreciation of the immense diversity present in our global society.bali tours
Hi, Journeys have the remarkable ability to reveal new languages, traditions, and ways of life that would otherwise remain unfamiliar to us. They possess the power to confront our preconceived notions and broaden our understanding of the world we inhabit. Whether we set out on expeditions to ancient landmarks, indulge in gastronomic pleasures, or interact with the local communities, traveling provides a plethora of unique encounters that foster a profound comprehension and admiration for the vast array of diversity found in our interconnected world.mejores lugares para acampar en paraguay
The act of traveling possesses a unique ability to reveal to us languages, customs, and ways of life that would otherwise remain unknown. It has the power to confront our preconceived notions and broaden our understanding of the world we call home. Whether we set off on expeditions to ancient landmarks, indulge in the flavors of different cuisines, or interact with the local inhabitants, traveling presents us with a myriad of extraordinary moments that foster a profound comprehension and admiration for the vast array of cultures within our global community.things to do in Peru
Whether it’s exploring the bustling streets of a vibrant city, immersing ourselves in the tranquility of nature, or indulging in the rich flavors of different cuisines, travel offers an abundance of opportunities to savor the beauty of life. It allows us to discover hidden gems, admire architectural marvels, and witness the wonders of the world firsthand.พูลวิลล่าพัทยา
Hi,
Travel is a beautiful and enriching experience that allows individuals to explore the world and immerse themselves in different cultures and environments. It opens up a world of possibilities, broadening one’s horizons and providing a fresh perspective on life. Whether it’s wandering through ancient ruins, marveling at architectural wonders, or simply strolling along picturesque beaches, travel offers a multitude of sensory delights. Swat Pakistan
Traveling also invites us to confront our own limitations and fears. Whether it’s conquering a fear of heights by skydiving or challenging physical endurance by trekking to remote destinations, pushing ourselves beyond our perceived boundaries teaches us resilience and self-belief. Overcoming these obstacles empowers us to realize that we are capable of achieving more than we ever thought possible.
actividades en punta cana
Exploring nature’s wonders is a humbling experience that reminds us of the planet’s beauty and our responsibility to protect it. From hiking through lush rainforests to snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, nature-based travel offers a profound connection to the Earth. As we witness the intricate ecosystems, encounter diverse wildlife, and breathe in the fresh air, we are reminded of the fragility and interconnectedness of our world, inspiring a desire to preserve and cherish it.Caribbean guide
Hi, The natural world offers a vast playground for travelers to explore. From the serene beauty of tropical rainforests to the awe-inspiring grandeur of towering mountains, nature’s wonders are abundant. Adventurers can embark on thrilling hikes, dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, or simply bask in the tranquility of a secluded beach. Nature travel not only offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life but also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our planet for future generations.tours medellin
Hi, One of the most exciting aspects of travel is the opportunity to discover unfamiliar places. Exploring the bustling streets of a vibrant city, hiking through serene landscapes, or lounging on picturesque beaches can provide a sense of wonder and awe. Every destination has its unique charm, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems off the beaten path, offering a wealth of experiences waiting to be uncovered.Taxi Chertsey
Hello,
The frame’s primary purpose is to protect the photograph or artwork from damage caused by dust, moisture, or accidental mishandling. It acts as a shield, safeguarding the image within while allowing us to appreciate it without compromising its integrity. Picture frames often feature a transparent material, such as glass or acrylic, that covers the image, providing clarity and preventing direct contact.architectural moulding
Hi,Traveling also offers an opportunity to taste different cuisines, savoring unique flavors and culinary traditions. From indulging in traditional street food to dining in Michelin-starred restaurants, food becomes a gateway to understanding the local culture and connecting with others.Mexico City helicopter tour
Traveling allows one to break free from the routine of daily life, offering a much-needed respite from the pressures and stresses of work and responsibilities. The time away from the usual environment presents an opportunity for self-reflection and personal growth. Whether wandering through bustling city streets or strolling along tranquil beaches, every destination offers unique insights into the world and oneself.Yacht Charter
Hello, Traveling is an exhilarating journey that allows you to immerse yourself in diverse cultures and landscapes. From bustling metropolises to tranquil rural areas, every destination offers a unique experience that leaves an indelible mark on your soul.Laos Tours
Traveling often presents us with moments of awe and wonder. The sight of a breathtaking sunset over a serene beach, the majesty of a snow-capped mountain, or the intricacy of stunning architecture can leave us speechless, reminding us of the world’s inherent beauty.Is Bogotá safe for American tourists
Thanks for the information.
Technology write for us
Hi,
Travel has become more accessible than ever before. With the help of technology, we can virtually explore destinations, plan intricate itineraries, and connect with fellow globetrotters across the globe. However, nothing compares to the visceral experience of standing in awe of the Taj Mahal, hearing the roar of Niagara Falls, or feeling the warm breeze on a tropical island.Siem Reap Tour
Nice summary! Looks like a pretty informative session. I’ll be honest with you, I don’t use guidebooks, except when they happen to be on the bookshelf at the hostel. I guess it’s travelers like me who are slowly killing the guidebook industry. Yet even though I don’t use them much, I really want them to stay, so I hope this rebranding will work. cheap travels
Hi,
As travelers venture beyond their borders, they discover the vast diversity of our planet, from the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the lush rainforests of the Amazon. Through these encounters, one gains an appreciation for the delicate balance between nature and humanity, fostering a deeper respect for the preservation of our planet’s treasures. Whether marveling at architectural wonders like the Taj Mahal or hiking through ancient ruins like Machu Picchu, the world’s historical legacy serves as a reminder of our collective human heritage and the stories of those who came before us.Cuba
Hello,
Travel is a timeless pursuit that has captivated human hearts and minds for centuries. It transcends mere physical movement; it’s a journey of the soul. As travelers embark on their adventures, they enter a realm where the familiar transforms into the extraordinary. Every step on foreign soil unravels a tapestry of cultures, histories, and landscapes waiting to be discovered. It’s a perpetual voyage of self-discovery, a chance to challenge preconceptions and broaden horizons.Palmas Del Mar Puerto Rico
Welcome to the Official Page of ” Makeover Pakistan “, Where You Experience the Art of Beauty! MAKEOVER.
Travel is a transformative experience that has the power to shape our perspectives and enrich our lives in countless ways. It takes us beyond the boundaries of our daily routines and familiar surroundings, opening up a world of new possibilities. Whether it’s exploring the bustling streets of a vibrant city, immersing oneself in the tranquility of nature, or delving into the mysteries of ancient cultures, travel offers a tapestry of experiences that is as diverse as the world itself.exclusive holiday in Namibia
Hey, In a city known for its sunny weather, UV protection is crucial. Replacement windows with UV-resistant coatings can help protect your furniture, flooring, and artwork from fading and sun damage. transducer techniques, llc
very nice article post !Virginia government contracts fraud lawyer
Hi,
Thank you for sharing this valuable website with me. I am eager to find more resources like this, written in a clear and concise manner, as I am currently working on a venture and would love to learn more about this topic.Click here
Traveling also fosters a sense of gratitude and appreciation for the world we inhabit. Witnessing the breathtaking beauty of nature’s wonders – from towering waterfalls to expansive valleys – instills a profound sense of awe and reverence. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and cherishing the natural treasures that adorn our planet.luxury holiday accommodation cornwall
Hi,
Experience the extraordinary evolution of wedding card designs! Transcending from ordinary paper to artistic reflections, these cards embody the couple’s essence and set the tone for a memorable celebration. Explore the vast array of options, each crafted to encapsulate the uniqueness of every couple’s journey.พิมพ์การ์ดแต่งงาน