Everest Whispers

Wow! Just finished chapter 8 and loved it. If you don't make the NY Times Best Sellers list I'll know that the list is fixed! :) You write an awesome story, so polished, nothing to criticize. The characters are so well written they dance on the page. I actualy feel I'm there with them and the description of their locale is --as kids say-- awesome. Can't wait to read more. Juliana

Linda is an extremely thoughtful writer. The tone that she uses throughout is consistent, as she captures the voice of the young people faced with this mammoth undertaking. Her obvious empathy and affection for the people and the area there are expertly infused throughout the story and through her words. The story is gripping and extends beyond many demographics, which makes it even more appealing. Everest Whispers is a job very well done.

Linda LeBlanc continues to show her story-telling skills in her second book (the first was Beyond The Summit) to explore the relationships between young bright-eyed teens being challenged by the dangers of climbing Mt. Everest, being immersed in the culture shock of an extremely poor nation who is playing host to largely indifferent, uncaring and littering sets of guests, and the inevitable quiet between moments of sheer terror where compassionate people seek the warmth of companions regardless of their differences.

LeBlanc does a great job weaving family tension, religious differences, romance and the intrigue of jealousies.

Linda LeBlanc's writing resonates her concern for the people of Nepal and an equal recognition of the reverence they hold for their mountains.

Excellent read, everyone. Be sure to look for Beyond the Summit for an additional poignant adventure story so well told.

Dave

Hi Linda, I've read your first few chapters and thoroughly enjoyed them. Even though it is aimed at the YA market, there is definite crossover to the adult market both for mountain junkies and those, like me, that prefer to enjoy their beauty from a bit further away. Reading this a few days after 9 climbers were killed in an avalanche in the Alps, I can really identify with Jaya's nervousness about the climb. There is a certain sadness about your opening chapter. Jaya is desperate for her father's love and admiration and trying hard to live up to the ideals of her late mother. Her father is too involved in the idea of record-breaking to understand his daughter's fear. It is really well written and, having travelled extensively in Asia, you have evoked the chaos and sights and smells of the place.. There are lots of issues of interest to both adult and teen readers which will keep us all involved in your story. Really excellent stuff.

Melanie
La Vie en Rosé

Even though the book is ostensibly written for the YA genre, it clearly has crossover appeal to anyone who has ever been a teen or struggled with the same issues faced by the protagonists. From the outset, the various protagonists are imbued with both likeable and unlikeable features, rendering them multidimensional inhabitants of this same real world that we all live in as opposed to the fantasy worlds so often depicted in much of the current YA offerings. While it is more difficult for the writer to communicate primarily in the first person, the read is so much deeper. Linda LeBlanc delivers Nepalese cultural immersion subtly, so that an immense amount of detail is imparted without the reader even realizing it. Within the first several chapters, this book has already captured all the elements of truly great literature, on par with the quality writers of the last century.

Really captivating read! Linda is such a great writer that gives so much depth to the characters while staying true to the circumstances they face...

What a great adventure for 4 young adults. The book is a wonderful tapestry of travel, education and the emotions of growing up. Linda Leblanc's second book is as well written as her first. I really enjoy ready the first chapters and look forward to owning this book.

Wow! Just finished chapter 8 and loved it. If you don't make the NY Times Best Sellers list I'll know that the list is fixed! :) You write an awesome story, so polished, nothing to criticize. The characters are so well written they dance on the page. I actualy feel I'm there with them and the description of their locale is --as kids say-- awesome. Can't wait to read more. Juliana

Well done, Linda! This held my attention from the very beginning.

I think Linda completely captures the overall young adult point of view with its mixed tribulations of impatience, over-confidence, self-doubt, and yearning among the constant fear of not fitting in to the greater world around them. She realistically portrays their speech as well as their distinct idioms and gestures so common to that age group. Likewise, she captures the longing-for acceptance and connection that these not-still-children, not-yet-adults feel towards their parents and other so-called grown-ups, while simultaneously struggling with the emotional disconnects that inhabit the lives of all teenagers. Yet this is a group to which Linda connects and for which she obviously cares deeply.

Linda also paints the landscape in a vivid “you-are-there” way that made me feel as if I were seeing it for the first time through the eyes of her characters… the beauty of the natural setting played against the ugliness of the human conditions that make up the much of the local surroundings. I had never before had any desire to visit this part of the world, yet she imparts in her descriptions, a seed of yearning for me to learn more about it.

An error occurred in loading Chapter 13, so I missed that one and will try again later to read it since it apparently contained an important “dust up” between the two male leads as well as other parts that I was disappointed in missing.

There are a couple of very minor spelling errors that probably occurred in the transition from print to electronic copy:
• Page 7 - “I could be any time” should read, “It could be any time.”
• Page 12 - “…while Tenzing let to search for his friend,” should be “left” instead of “let.”

Linda writes from the veteran’s point of view of someone who has experienced first-hand, so much of what she describes in the narration and descriptions of the people and places. I found myself tensing up as I read certain scenes, sharing --- in a very small way --- the fears and doubts that her characters were experiencing first-hand as they managed to slowly fight their way forward over the unforgiving terrain. A visceral experience to be sure, and one which I never, ever want to experience in real life.

Good imagery, good character development, good story. As I said at the beginning of these comments, good job, Linda! I eagerly await the release of the rest of this amazing tale!

Well done, Linda! This held my attention from the very beginning.

I think Linda completely captures the overall young adult point of view with its mixed tribulations of impatience, over-confidence, self-doubt, and yearning among the constant fear of not fitting in to the greater world around them. She realistically portrays their speech as well as their distinct idioms and gestures so common to that age group. Likewise, she captures the longing-for acceptance and connection that these not-still-children, not-yet-adults feel towards their parents and other so-called grown-ups, while simultaneously struggling with the emotional disconnects that inhabit the lives of all teenagers. Yet this is a group to which Linda connects and for which she obviously cares deeply.

Linda also paints the landscape in a vivid “you-are-there” way that made me feel as if I were seeing it for the first time through the eyes of her characters… the beauty of the natural setting played against the ugliness of the human conditions that make up the much of the local surroundings. I had never before had any desire to visit this part of the world, yet she imparts in her descriptions, a seed of yearning for me to learn more about it.

An error occurred in loading Chapter 13, so I missed that one and will try again later to read it since it apparently contained an important “dust up” between the two male leads as well as other parts that I was disappointed in missing.

There are a couple of very minor spelling errors that probably occurred in the transition from print to electronic copy:
• Page 7 - “I could be any time” should read, “It could be any time.”
• Page 12 - “…while Tenzing let to search for his friend,” should be “left” instead of “let.”

Linda writes from the veteran’s point of view of someone who has experienced first-hand, so much of what she describes in the narration and descriptions of the people and places. I found myself tensing up as I read certain scenes, sharing --- in a very small way --- the fears and doubts that her characters were experiencing first-hand as they managed to slowly fight their way forward over the unforgiving terrain. A visceral experience to be sure, and one which I never, ever want to experience in real life.

Good imagery, good character development, good story. As I said at the beginning of these comments, good job, Linda! I eagerly await the release of the rest of this amazing tale!

Well done, Linda! This held my attention from the very beginning.

I think Linda completely captures the overall young adult point of view with its mixed tribulations of impatience, over-confidence, self-doubt, and yearning among the constant fear of not fitting in to the greater world around them. She realistically portrays their speech as well as their distinct idioms and gestures so common to that age group. Likewise, she captures the longing-for acceptance and connection that these not-still-children, not-yet-adults feel towards their parents and other so-called grown-ups, while simultaneously struggling with the emotional disconnects that inhabit the lives of all teenagers. Yet this is a group to which Linda connects and for which she obviously cares deeply.

Linda also paints the landscape in a vivid “you-are-there” way that made me feel as if I were seeing it for the first time through the eyes of her characters… the beauty of the natural setting played against the ugliness of the human conditions that make up the much of the local surroundings. I had never before had any desire to visit this part of the world, yet she imparts in her descriptions, a seed of yearning for me to learn more about it.

An error occurred in loading Chapter 13, so I missed that one and will try again later to read it since it apparently contained an important “dust up” between the two male leads as well as other parts that I was disappointed in missing.

There are a couple of very minor spelling errors that probably occurred in the transition from print to electronic copy:
• Page 7 - “I could be any time” should read, “It could be any time.”
• Page 12 - “…while Tenzing let to search for his friend,” should be “left” instead of “let.”

Linda writes from the veteran’s point of view of someone who has experienced first-hand, so much of what she describes in the narration and descriptions of the people and places. I found myself tensing up as I read certain scenes, sharing --- in a very small way --- the fears and doubts that her characters were experiencing first-hand as they managed to slowly fight their way forward over the unforgiving terrain. A visceral experience to be sure, and one which I never, ever want to experience in real life.

Good imagery, good character development, good story. As I said at the beginning of these comments, good job, Linda! I eagerly await the release of the rest of this amazing tale!

Well done, Linda! This held my attention from the very beginning.

I think Linda completely captures the overall young adult point of view with its mixed tribulations of impatience, over-confidence, self-doubt, and yearning among the constant fear of not fitting in to the greater world around them. She realistically portrays their speech as well as their distinct idioms and gestures so common to that age group. Likewise, she captures the longing-for acceptance and connection that these not-still-children, not-yet-adults feel towards their parents and other so-called grown-ups, while simultaneously struggling with the emotional disconnects that inhabit the lives of all teenagers. Yet this is a group to which Linda connects and for which she obviously cares deeply.

Linda also paints the landscape in a vivid “you-are-there” way that made me feel as if I were seeing it for the first time through the eyes of her characters… the beauty of the natural setting played against the ugliness of the human conditions that make up the much of the local surroundings. I had never before had any desire to visit this part of the world, yet she imparts in her descriptions, a seed of yearning for me to learn more about it.

An error occurred in loading Chapter 13, so I missed that one and will try again later to read it since it apparently contained an important “dust up” between the two male leads as well as other parts that I was disappointed in missing.

There are a couple of very minor spelling errors that probably occurred in the transition from print to electronic copy:
• Page 7 - “I could be any time” should read, “It could be any time.”
• Page 12 - “…while Tenzing let to search for his friend,” should be “left” instead of “let.”

Linda writes from the veteran’s point of view of someone who has experienced first-hand, so much of what she describes in the narration and descriptions of the people and places. I found myself tensing up as I read certain scenes, sharing --- in a very small way --- the fears and doubts that her characters were experiencing first-hand as they managed to slowly fight their way forward over the unforgiving terrain. A visceral experience to be sure, and one which I never, ever want to experience in real life.

Good imagery, good character development, good story. As I said at the beginning of these comments, good job, Linda! I eagerly await the release of the rest of this amazing tale!

I've read chapters 1 and 2, and thought it was a very polished piece of work, definitely something I could see in bookstores. Not only because it flows very well, but because your characters are interesting, mostly Jaya, who has a strong voice, and one that fits in well with her age. I have read other books on this site for YAs, as well as published YA books, and not all of them have a teen voice that rings true, but yours does, which is a pleasure to read. I also liked the adventure side of the story, the excitement and peril (as made evident in both chapters) of climbing the largest mountain in the world, and for teens to do it, is a definite pull for readers. Also, I liked the addition of Tenzing in here, the hint of a romance, and I loved Jaya's reaction to him, her excitement. This is another draw card for YA readers: Romance.

The mention of the youngest climber (13yrs old) climbing on the Tibetan side of the mountain was amazing, and I read your message about getting your book about this person published, which is cool, congratulations :)

I have only one comment for a possible edit, but it's minor and may not be necessary. I found chapter 2 perfect, but the ending of chapter 1 felt a little abrupt with the flashback, that maybe it would be slightly better with maybe one or two extra lines to bring the story back into the present, rounding that chapter off nicely. But again, it's minor and may not be as noticeable in the formatting of a book as it is on Authonomy. It's a possibility anyway.

I will read on when I grab some more time. However, I'll be away for a few days on holiday, so probably when I get home. Cheers, Marita.

P.S. Sorry that I don't have many suggestions for change, but when something is this polished, there usually isn't much to suggest. Well done.

Hi, Linda - Your writing is very polished and flows so easily. It's terrific. I loved the passage "the ice crystals trailing from it like a belly dancer's veil." Poetry for sure. Your description of Kathmandu made me glad to be where I am. Your portrayal of teens with their problems and angst is spot on. I think you have a really good story here and it should be a success whenever and wherever it gets published. 5 stars from me. I look forward to reading more. Best wishes, Juliana

I had to take a look at this story as I love mountaineering stories, and also because I've spend a couple of months in Nepal.
I love the opening phrase - "I imagined myself standing on top of the world, freezing and struggling for air…" It just took me 8000 meters up (sorry, I don't know feet) and 20 degrees (C) lower, and explained right away who was the narrator. An opening phrase like this, a reader could dive into the story. It's more effective than lengthy descriptions of scenery and characters.

Chapter 2: Korea Air - Korean Air?

Great description of the airport and Thamel. "It was so third world" - can't find a better way to put it even though, well, a bit politically incorrect? But it's excusable when a teenager talk like that, I think.

Just wondered why this book is not in travel genre. It'd attract people who like reading travel literatures.

R

Linda
I have read quite a few chapters of your great book. I like your style of writing (I like first person MC). I know it is aimed at YA but I truly believe this will be read by a much wider audience. You certainly seem to know a lot about mountaineering (I take it you must be a climber yourself). I thoroughly enjoyed what I read and I give you high stars and not just because you backed my Tales for Children, which I'd like to thank you for.
All the best
Brian.

Hi Linda,

Your book tags tell me you have a winner on your hand. A genre, which is extremely popular with all age groups and gender. Read the first two chapters, and found your writing impeccable.

Minor nit-picks.

Chapter 1

- Did he not understand that I could not move?

Suggestion - Didn't he see I lacked skill and confidence?

Chapter 2

- It was so third world.

Suggestion - It was so typical of a third world country or irritating delays synonymous with third world countries.

- Is it necessary to write Base Camp with first alphabet in uppercase? Maybe Italics would do the trick.

Best,

N.Lalit ( LILITH )

I find your choice of the location of this drama/romance interesting. My husband's brother was killed in an avalance on Mont Blanc 27 years ago, at the age of 27. The anniversary has just passed. I think hearing the story of his, and his friend's death, and the devastation of the families involved, will make your story an intriguing read.

Linda: A beautiful book expertly written. There is so much to comment on, but this is not a book report, only a short comment, so I'll mention only only a few things that jumped out at me. "Like a belly dancer's veil" is a wonderful example of the many word pictures you created, as is "Crawl inside of them and find out how that worked." The sleeping bag scene is excellent I would also say the book is well researched, but I suspect the details were experienced first hand by you and were not studied in the usual sense of the word research. Six stars. jack hudson.

I loved the way this book draws you in weaving a story of 4 teens on an adventure that feels so authentic from the Sherpa dialogue to the father/daughter drama. I had an enjoyable arm chair visit to Nepal and want to share this book with my ladies book club. I was swept into the story and eager to keep reading. Janet E.

Great read although I am only beginning the book. You are a great story teller. You are passionate about your craft and the characters you portray. You provide us with great reads.

Barb S.

Linda LeBlanc is at it again with her excellent grasp of how to craft the English language into meaningful and adventurous story-telling. I love how you set up Jaya's first infatuation with the Sherpa guide. I have read Beyond the Summit, have introduced the book to two reading groups, both purchasing the books for their members and have a third group waiting to hear Linda's presentation. I can't wait for this book's release.

Great reads, Linda. Thanks.

Hi Linda, I read chapter 4. This is a very unique and enjoyable story, I like the way you have combined your romance twists into a story about young people overcoming a challenge. The story is very well writen and flows very smooth, the characters are believeable and easy to warm to. You have a story that is definately going to have an audience and generate discussion about Nepal, maybe even inspire others.
Well Done.

Kindest Regards and Best Wishes.
Lenny Banks - Tide and Time: At The Rock.

What a unique and exciting premise for a YA book. I'm tired of vampires and sytopian societies. This is REAL life. As an adult, I'm thorougly enjoying it. The author must have spent a great deal of time in Nepal to be able to describe the setting so well. I loved learning about the Sherpa culture and Buddhists. The conflicts among the four teens and parreant/child issues will resonate with not only teens but adults. I want Linda to hurry and finish the book so I can see if all of them make it back alive and what decisions each teen makes. Backed with 6 stars!!

Still enjoying this book! I love the combination of Nepali/climber culture and the romance.

Backing and reading your book. Very good.

How sweetly written! Such detail. Linda's writing draws one into the story before one reaizes it. This is talent. Linda captures the teenagers voice and speech patterns so well. I do hope Linda has many, many more books to write and many, many more stories to tell. She has a God given talent.

Linda, Although this book is aimed at the young adult audience it is a universal story, that of overcoming great obstacles and insurmountable barriers, becoming acquainted with new peoples, unimaginable living modes and emotional situations, adapting to challenging and unfamiliar circumstances...couched as it is in the cradle of a warm supporting family, invigorated as it is by the looming danger, the entire mixture is an engaging and inspiring book, thoroughly enjoyable even for an adult audience. I will star and back this book.

Lynne Heffner Ferrante
An Untenable Fragrance of Violets

Hi Linda,

I've read the first three chapters and they all flowed well. The teenage narrative is authentic (seems to be very little difference between US and UK teen speak)! A nice mix of dialogue and description, the characters were well introduced, and plenty of issues that'll keep the reader interested. This is good YA stuff - clearly and simply written, and moves along at a good pace. I'll give it plenty of stars and keep it on my watchlist.

Only spotted one incredibly minor typo:

Ch 1 - Full stop (or period) missing when Indian lady says "Hundreds have died."

Linda, I was totally drawn in by your story! You really have a knack with your characters. I found each and every one of them realistic and definitely not one dimensional. I especially like the work you did with Jaya. I think she's a main character that people will root for, not only because of her being a 'reluctant hero' but also because of her drive and determination. Your descriptions were great and vivid; have you been to Nepal before? I honestly felt like I was there.

One thing that distracted me was some of the syntax. You started quite a few sentences with 'and'. While I don't have anything against this stylistically, I felt that at times it was a little too frequently used or didn't fit well. There was a tense issue somewhere, but I can't remember exactly where. I think it was in Chapter 3 somewhere... sorry! I should have marked it.

Backed and highly starred. I will be reading on!

Ryan
2175

Hi Linda,

I liked the first person view point. You did a good job with it. Four stars. Will return for reading tomorrow. I'm very surprised that this novel isn't futher up on the charts.

Best wishes,
Chipper Newman

Jwojalappa Dear Linda! Om Mani Padme Hum! Om Mani Padme Hum!! I'm really enjoyed upto over 10 chapter. I've been diving into your fiction. Good Job. Thuche!

To attempt one of the scariest things, a climb up Mt Everest, in the name of your mom. I feel your love. Your passion compelled me to read on

From their arrival in Nepal until Jaya's romantic interlude with Tenzing under the blanket at Base Camp, this is a very well-written, captivating story! As a reader, I like the hiking, cultural, and adventure parts of your story better than the romance but that's because I'm an older adult. Young adults will certainly enjoy every part of your story.

I appreciate the healthy fear that each character has of the climb they are about to make, and the complicated relationships add genuine authenticity to your story: Jaya feeling like she had to live up to her Dad's expectations, Logan who was trying to be 'tough' like his dad, and Amy, knowing that if she didn't make it to the top her surgeon parents would not donate the million to the hospital. That was a lot pressure for these young people to be put under and is bound to effect the mammoth climb they will undertake.

This is a gripping, intriguing, captivating story involving culture shock, family relationships, jealousy, religious differences, but, most of all great action adventure! The author writes vivid imagery of both gorgeous scenes around Nepal as well as the very dangerous aspects and sheer terror of this adventure. The dialogue is especially good: very appropriate and natural, and the characters are stand-out: real adolescents

The only suggestion I have concerns a small aspect of your plot: I wonder about the reality of an adult (Jaya's father) agreeing to take two teenage boys along who seemed to dislike each other and constantly traded barbs and might suggest that you make them more supportive of each other even though they both seemed to have a crush on Jaya. Also, I don't think an adult would allow a climber to drink as much as Logan does. I suspect your romantic triangle can still play itself out even if the Logan and Galen are good friends, fairly healthy personalities, and supportive of each other?

But this is an outstanding novel, brilliantly told, and written with great beautiful and authenticity. I applaud your writing and believe this will become a best-seller once it's published. I'd even like to have a copy! Best wishes, dearheart, for the publication of your awesome book.
Patricia Laster
Breaking Free

Dear Jaya, I live in Kathmandu and all the things that written are coming in real front of my eyes. I have been knowing more about the places that I've heard and seen only from outside even living in Kathmandu. All the places, restaurants and guest house of Thamel are so closed to me. I'm really enjoying upto chapter 3. Written so beautifully. I'm going now at 4:)

Having worked as a guide in Nepal for twenty years, I can say that Linda gives us a real Nepal and a real Himalaya along with her story of struggle and survival.

Kathmandu and teenagers! What a mix. They are so young - the mountain is so big.

great book for teens that teaches them as it etertains. The conflict between parents and children rings true,
The descriptions of difficulty in climb8ing were fascinating to me. 6 stars

Namaste Dear friend Linda from Kathmandu! I've just finished the first chapter. I'm hooked. I'm really touched with the way of your writing. I'm sure that I'll be enjoyed and want to finish as soon as I can. Excellent, Mind-blowing! I've rated 6 stars and will get easily from me . You've written so beautifully. I like to read very much and I haven't read this type of novel yet in my life. This is an honest and true novel. I'm so much proud to get for reading of my own country Nepal. Thank you so much for loving my NEPAL!

With lots of love!!
Suresh

I like the way you get right to it, no pre-amble but straight into the guts of the story. Great writing and a premise that means I will read more. Love the book cover, by the way.

Your characters are believable and their goals not unrealistic. Your descriptions are spot on and I will really enjoy reading more. In the meantime happy to put this on my shelf.

I've had to make space on my bookshelf for this book as it's the first one I've read on the site that has literally moved me to tears and I am still only on chapter 15.
This is beautifully written, and explores the complex relationships between a bunch of teens from different backgrounds and cultures.
Jaya's constant need to feel worthy of her mother's sacrifice and fathers love is heartbreaking.
Her blossoming relationship with Tenzing is so touching and romantic. Her courage in the face of her fears is amazing.
Excellent portrayal of the resentment Logan feels toward Galen. Beautiful descriptions of Kathmandu. The explanations of the Hindu and Buddhist beliefs are informative and sensitively dealt with. I hope you get published and I will definitely be back to finish when my internet connection improves.

Sixteen is an age where many children rebel against what their parents want. This is a good story, of family unity even after a tragedy, as well as teenagers having determination in conquering a goal. I like the story and the setting.

Read Chapters 1, 2 and 22. Nice, easy, competent writing style that I think would be palatable to teenagers. Straight away the tension between father and daughter is clearly drawn out as she tries to live up to his expectations and quell herown doubts. No doubt some teenagers will draw parallels to expectations in their lives from parents similarly blinded by their own desires and expectations. I'd love to know how this aspect is played out in the story and what, if any, moral is offered.

One thing that struck me in Chapter 22 was when the daughter was contemplating her chances of being lost in a crevasse and remaining there like a mammoth for hundreds of years. I instinctively wanted to change that to thousands of years.

I sense that Linda has pulled out a number of teen issues/preoccupations to explore in the story. Unfortunately I've not been able to read every chapter to discover them all. A climb of Everest is a nice place to put them.

Well done , Linda

What a special, courageous story! I felt as if I were there, traveling with the group, experiencing the sights, sounds, and scenery. I liked that the group was doing what they were doing for cancer patients. That gave it a deeper purpose. I also enjoyed learning about the traditions, the prayers, the monks, and the porters. It made it interesting reading.

The tensions slowly built up in the story as the group got closer to their destination of Mt. Everest. I don't know what the purpose of Logan is in this story, thought, except as a weak link or to provide conflict with Galen? His drinking was a concern, and I was surprised Jaya's father didn't have a confrontation with him sooner. It was evident when they were crossing that path and Logan fell and needed to be rescued, that if anyone was to get hurt, it would be him. But you never know.

Danger is constantly in the background in this story, from the bodies of fallen people that show up on the mountain after the ice melts, to the French lady who had to be airlifted because of her leg.

The Yaks provided a nice comic relief, and Tenzing and Jaya's blossoming love is tender and poignant.

Excellent writing! I wish you the best of luck!!

Best,
Patty Apostolides
The Greek Maiden and the English Lord
www.pattyapostolides.com

This is something a bit different for the YA market.
First chapter starts strongly with the exploration of Jaya's fears and need to support her father. The climbing training is interesting and you decribe the background cleverly, the richshaw race. The mountain description were very real and your teenage dialogue is spot on!
High stars

While looking for new books to keep my 13 year old grandson engaged in summer reading, I came upon Linda LeBlanc's YA novel Everest Whispers . The content is full of high adventure, a bit of mystery and a lot of "puppy love" situations which ALL 14 year old boys fantasize about but don't dare share even with their best friends. I found this book to be extremely well written for young adults of both genders. It has enough emotional drama, character identification and description as well as geographical detail to help place a young mind with its ability to visualize and its capacity to imagine being smack in the middle of the group of teenagers trying to reach a goal which is partly theirs but driven by the individual egos of their parents. In addition, I not only found this book an excellent read for my grandson but I, a 70 year old grandpa, found myself being immediately pulled into the story with vivid "flashbacks" to my time as a 15 year old teenager dealing with daily heart breaks that are thrown at you by all the lovely girls you couldn't stand before puberty struck like a lighting bolt. More specifically, it brought back deep anxieties and pain I faced with my own parents of not being able to live up to their dreams and expectations. Emotionally, I was immediately drawn into the conflict between parent and child as a young adult strives for independence. Still at 70, I can taste and feel the fear as well as the glory of reaching your goal! In conclusion, this is an excellent book, well written and enticing. I anxiously await for it to be published. I know my grandson will love it!! I sure have enjoyed reading this excerpt. Please finish it soon, summer will soon be gone . Well done Linda LeBlanc and God's speed in getting it published.

Great opening chapter. I can't wait to read when I have more time.

This "YA" book is more detailed and better composed than untold thousands of modern "adult reading" novels. More than any other book I've read this year, "Everest Whispers" made me feel I was right there in its setting (Nepal). The characters' emotions are as vivid as the descriptions of the land in which they reside. A work of literary art like this should not be confused with simplified-structure "YA" novels. I feel that putting a brilliant story like this in the "YA" category (simply because it has an adolescent protagonist) does not do this novel justice.

this is an honest and true novel; clear writing style and excellent narrative too.
backed...
read SEASONS..

Linda,
What a stupendous adventure, four teen-agers daring to conquer the legendary Mt. Evererst to raise a million dollars for a hospital. Your protagonist Jaya using the first person POV gives the reader a more intimate connection with the climb, spiced up by an affair with the Sherpa guide. The narrative carries a conversational tone and the dialogue provides insight into the hearts and minds of the characters throughout their conflicts and challenges. Thank you so much for the engrossing read..

Kenneth Edward Lim
The North Korean

As a hiker, an excellent read, good story, well written

Enjoyed the book. As a hiker it is an exciting read

Wow I can picture everything like a movie, you're such a great writer. And this would make a great teen book I know a few people who would love to read this, keep it up you're doing a wonderful job!

~Ketzzy.

A father's determination in the face of real danger. A daughter's love of her father and vow to never risk losing his love. Strong character emotions. A poignant hook at chapter's end.

Fascinating young adult Nepal adventure! Linda LeBlanc is a fearless writer in her second fictional account set in the ascent of Mt. Everest. She draws upon her own climbing/teaching experience in this beautiful part of the world.