Jodi Picoult's novels are truly emotionally draining.

However, they serve a significant purpose, which is to impart a valuable lesson.

This is what I really like about her writing.

No matter how much sadness one experiences in their imagination while suffering along with the characters, they are actually learning about a problem that exists within society.

In this particular book, the situation being investigated is suicide.

We all know someone who has unfortunately taken their own life, so it must be a much more common event than society is willing to admit.

Obituaries often state "died suddenly" to conceal the truth.

Perhaps we avoid discussing this problem because it is so incredibly painful.

I deeply admire Ms. Picoult's ability to直面 this heart-wrenching issue and strive to find an answer, a solution, or maybe even an acceptance, although the thought may seem almost too difficult to bear.

Jodi is one of my favorite authors who hasn't disappointed me this time either. Why 4 and not 5? Because "The Storyteller" is still at the top of everything I've read from her.

The sensitive and painful subject of suicide is explored. The love and friendship between Emily and Chris are also beautifully depicted. The suspense created by the author keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. The process made me wish I could participate in it, shout and bang my head against the wall!!!

However, I would have liked more emphasis on Emily's feelings and emotions, as Chris was at the center of the action. The parents seemed rather indifferent to me until the tragic event.

" You always find out who your true friends are after you go through a difficult situation." - page 139

"To want is not the same as to love." - page 231

"When you become a mother, you gain a unique kind of vision, like a prism through which you can see all aspects of your child at once." page 245

"When you're about to commit suicide, the last thing you think about is getting a refund." page 437

This is more of a rant than a review, but this book is pure trash, so I’d rather talk about its issues.

While reading other reviews for The Pact, I only found one person, before I gave up, who had the same problem as me. It got to the point where I wondered if I read the same book as everyone else because I don't know how anyone could have read this book and not taken issue with a very glaring problem that occurs many times throughout the story.

The Pact starts with a boy and a girl, later identified as Chris and Emily, talking. They tell each other “I Love You,” and then a shot is fired. After that, the reader is taken to two sets of parents, Chris and Emily’s. They are having dinner at a Chinese restaurant as usual. We learn that they are neighbors and have been since before Chris and Emily were born. Of course, Chris and Emily, who are 18 in the present, have been inseparable since day one and are destined to be together, with a strong sense of attachment between the characters. But after they finish dinner and arrive home, they receive phone calls telling them to go to the hospital. Emily is dead, and Chris is injured. Chris says it was a suicide pact, but the police suspect otherwise, thinking that Chris pulled the trigger. After some tearful exchanges, the whirlwind “adventure” begins in The Pact. Did Chris kill her, or was it really a suicide pact?

The Pact is divided into three parts. The first part, “The Boy Next Door,” focuses on the aftermath of the event, with flashbacks related to Chris and Emily, emphasizing Chris. The rest of the story, after the very beginning, follows the aftermath of Emily’s death, Chris’s arrest for murder, and the lives of those left behind, like Chris and Emily’s parents. While reading through the aftermath, Picoult takes the reader back in time, starting when Chris and Emily were born, three months apart, and proceeds to tell their whole life story through flashbacks every 20 pages or so. A third of the way through the novel, we get the second part, “The Girl Next Door,” which still focuses on Chris, but the flashbacks are more Emily-oriented. And finally, there is the ominous “The Truth” section to wrap up the story.

The Pact is a very typical Jodi Picoult story. I previously read Change of Heart, and it pretty much follows the exact same storyline. The “shocking” event happens in the very beginning, there are jail scenes, flashbacks, “surprise shocking information revealed,” courtroom drama, and then the ending that is very predictable and not at all surprising because everything leads up to it, and there’s no way it could end any other way. It always makes me wonder why I read her books in the first place because there is absolutely no suspense, despite the fact that the author spends 400 pages building up to the ending that has been hyped up since the first page.

I was rather disappointed with this novel because I had been told it was one of the better Jodi Picoult books, but it was all very blah and meh throughout, and many parts left me in a fiery rage, wanting to cut this book into a million little pieces and then throw it out the window in celebration.

My biggest problem with the book was the main character, Chris. The way he was written, it was obvious that I was supposed to find him charming, lovable, and loyal, and I was supposed to long for a boyfriend just like him. But all I took away from this book and his character is that I hope and pray that I never meet anyone like him in my entire life. I do not understand how anyone could find him charming or sympathetic. And from reading other reviews, I see that most people adored Chris while despising Emily. I feel the opposite. Emily was written in a pretty whiny tone, and at first, I thought she was the definition of White Girl Problems, but as everything unraveled, my heart ached for her and her struggles. I would have much preferred a novel that delved into her character before the suicide pact and talked about her feelings more because the constant focus on Chris’s feelings drove me crazy.

My main problem with Chris is that he does not understand what the word “No” means. There are three times that I remember exactly where Emily tells him no during their intimate scenes, and he handles it all wrong each time. The first time, he actually stops, which I guess is Bravo to him, but that’s after he yanked her hand to his crotch and said “You’re supposed to touch me too.” Fuck off, asshole. She doesn’t have to do anything. The second time it happened, I almost burned my book down because I couldn’t stop seeing red. She says NO clearly and loudly FOUR times, and he just keeps going. She has to actually PUNCH him in his EAR to get him to stop. The third time she says no is when they are parked in his car, and he stops after she says “No” a couple of times and then proceeds to throw a hissy fit and drive her home. I have never wanted a character to drive off a cliff more than Chris.

I have no idea how Jodi Picoult expected me to read these scenes and then throw in other scenes where Chris is all hurt and misunderstood in prison, waiting for his trial, and expect me to care. There was no need to have him respond this way to Emily if he was supposed to be this Perfect Boy who loved no one more than Emily. It still makes no sense to me. These scenes ruined him for me, and I just really didn't give a crap about whether or not he got a guilty or non-guilty verdict. I don't know how I could ever feel sorry for him after reading those three scenes. All it did was make me feel more sorry for Emily that she had to deal with that on top of all her other problems in life. I began to understand her withdrawal more, and her whines stopped bothering me because, hell, I'd probably be whiny too if Chris was my boyfriend.

And I realize these scenes were a plot device for the subplot of Emily’s molestation by the man at McDonalds, but it didn't have to go that far with her scenes with Chris. If the author wanted me to still feel for Chris, she should have had him stop and be okay with it. All I could think about was that he was about two steps away from being like the man at McDonalds. It would have been a much better story if that had never happened between Chris and Emily, and I probably would have actually liked The Pact a lot more. And it would have made a lot more sense for it to have not happened because I thought Chris was supposed to be this perfect man, but his actions continuously showed me otherwise.

My issues with Chris completely alienated me from the story and characters.

There were a million other problems I had with this book. The sex scenes were always awkward, and many of them came out of nowhere. Also, Picoult’s overuse of metaphors and similes during sex scenes and kissing scenes made me laugh my ass off because they were so over the top. The whole courtroom saga dragged on way too long and went into way too much detail. She should have taken some notes from a Law and Order episode or something because half the stuff that went on in the court room scenes wasn't exactly that important or something that I was desperate to know.

This book was a complete and utter mess. After this review, I'm going to push this story from my mind and pretend that I never read it at all. I don't think there is a single good thing I said about this book. I guess I semi-liked Chris’s sister Kate, but she wasn't in it enough for me to feel attached to her. Everything else besides Kate was a pile of crap.

Save yourself the trouble and please never read this book.

My kind of beach read is truly something special.

It has the power to be both devastating and emotional, taking the reader on a wild ride of feelings.

The story unfolds in a way that keeps you on the edge of your seat, never knowing what will happen next.

The characters are so well-developed that you can't help but become invested in their lives and struggles.

As you read, you'll find yourself laughing one moment and crying the next.

It's the kind of book that makes you forget about everything else and lose yourself in the pages.

Whether you're lounging on the beach or curled up in your favorite chair, this beach read is sure to be a captivating and unforgettable experience.

So, if you're looking for a book that will tug at your heartstrings and keep you entertained from start to finish, look no further than my kind of beach read.

The Pact

Jodi Picoult

Every time I embark on a Jodi Picoult story, it's as if she skillfully dismantles my heart, leaving me in a state of profound sobbing. This is precisely what transpired while I was engrossed in THE PACT. Emily and Chris have been the closest of friends since their very birth. Their parents, who are not only next door neighbors but also the best of friends, have witnessed their growing bond. However, everything changes on that fateful night when lives are irrevocably altered, and one even comes to a tragic end. Trust me, hold on tight! The emotional roller coaster that Jodi Picoult subjects her readers to with THE PACT is an insanely wild ride.

THE PACT is brimming with intense family drama, deep love, a complex courtroom trial, and the harrowing topic of teenage suicide. Be prepared to be completely consumed by this heart-wrenching story until you reach its conclusion. Once you begin, you'll find it impossible to put down. If you've never delved into the works of Jodi Picoult before, THE PACT serves as an excellent introduction to her emotionally charged writing. Throughout my reading, I couldn't help but scream "Tell someone already!" I understand their love for each other, but when someone you love starts expressing suicidal thoughts, it's crucial to reach out and not keep it a secret.

This story truly makes you reflect on the importance of communication and the devastating consequences that can result from silence.

Wow. This story was truly intense. It had me completely on the edge of my seat from the very beginning until the very end. I have to say that this is by far my favorite Picoult book. The way she weaves the plot and develops the characters is just amazing.

It's also a great choice for a book club. I can't wait to bring it up at our next meeting and hear everyone else's thoughts and interpretations. There are so many different themes and ideas in this book that I'm sure it will spark a lively discussion.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a good mystery or a thought-provoking read. It's definitely one that will stay with you long after you've finished the last page.

By far, Jodi Picoult's The Pact is my absolute favorite book of hers. I had initially thought that Plain Truth was my number one, but after delving into The Pact, I've discovered a new top contender! At the beginning, I was a bit skeptical about the way the book was structured, with the "Now" and "Then" sections switching back and forth. However, as I continued to read and finally finished the book, I came to realize that this very aspect was what made the book so outstanding. I adored going back to the "Then" sections because it provided the truth and allowed me to walk through the characters' lives, understanding how they arrived at the point they were in "Now".

I truly enjoyed this book to the fullest. Every time I picked it up, I became completely engrossed in it. I simply couldn't put it down and would get extremely excited whenever I had the opportunity to read it! Reading this book was a bittersweet journey, filled with both happiness and tragedy, and it was something that could potentially happen in real life. It was astonishing how, just through the power of words, I could actually feel the emotions of the characters and understand their pain. In this review, I can't go into all the details I'd like without spoiling the story for others. But trust me, this is a must-read book!

This is my very first encounter with a Jodi Picoult novel.

Undoubtedly, it proved to be a real page turner, captivating me completely from start to finish.

I found myself thoroughly enthralled throughout the entire reading experience.

However, I must confess that I had been anticipating something a little more on the dramatic and moving side.

I was hoping for a much bigger revelation towards the end, something that would really take my breath away.

Moreover, the stupidity of some of the characters' actions did manage to annoy me to a certain extent.

Despite these minor drawbacks, I truly relished Jodi's writing style.

Her words have a certain charm and fluidity that makes the story flow seamlessly.

All in all, I would definitely say that this novel is well worth a read.

It offers an engaging plot, interesting characters, and a writing style that is both enjoyable and captivating.

Even though it didn't quite meet all of my expectations, it still managed to leave a lasting impression on me.

I look forward to exploring more of Jodi Picoult's works in the future.

What message does this send to the reader?

What was the author trying to convey regarding suicide ideation?

I'm aware that numerous people had an affinity for this book, yet the romanticizing of suicide didn't sit well with me at all.

Moreover, the entire premise of these parents forcefully pushing these kids together and the boyfriend pressuring Emily into a sexual relationship that she evidently didn't desire was just extremely bizarre.

I don't believe this author should have taken on this subject matter.

I think it was a misstep.

I'm certain she didn't intend to glorify suicide, but that's more or less what ended up happening.

The book seems to have sent a rather concerning message about suicide, which could potentially have a negative impact on vulnerable readers.

The way the story was crafted, with the elements of forced relationships and the inappropriate treatment of the suicide theme, makes it a less than satisfactory read in my opinion.

It's important for authors to handle such sensitive topics with great care and responsibility to avoid sending the wrong message.

Perhaps a different approach or a more nuanced exploration of these issues could have made the book more meaningful and less likely to cause discomfort or misinterpretation.

I read this story, and from the very beginning, I had a strong desire to have it completed right away.

However, I don't quite understand why I persisted until the very end. Maybe I was hoping that it would improve as the story progressed...?

The issue of Emily's obsession with suicide or the situation regarding the baby remained rather unclear to me. Was the baby Chris's? Or was Emily being molested? The author seemed to insinuate many things, but without providing clear answers.

Picoult's writing can definitely be a hit or miss. In this case, it was a miss for me. I'm glad that I'm finally done reading it, but at the same time, I'm left feeling frustrated. Grrrr....

It seems that the lack of clarity and the unresolved plot points really detracted from my overall enjoyment of the story. I was hoping for a more satisfying conclusion, but unfortunately, that wasn't the case.

I knew that the premise of this book was teenage suicide, and yet I still found it extremely disturbing. As a mother, I simply could not fathom anything more devastating than the loss of one's child, regardless of the means.

Picoult's sequence of events was quite interesting. The timeline moved back and forth, allowing the reader to gain a sense of just how close both families were. However, I was completely unable to relate to Emily's pain. Yes, she had been sexually abused as a child in a fast food restaurant, but if she was as intelligent as we are led to believe, she should have sought some form of therapy. She carried this pain within her for years and never told her parents, friends, teachers, or even Chris, her soul mate. I just wanted to shake her and tell her to get some help. Look at all the good things she had in her life! Emily was a talented artist, loved by her parents, Chris, her friends, and teachers. She had so much to live for and accomplish in her life. I found her character to be weak and was not sympathetic to her struggles.

I felt sorry for both Emily and Chris' parents. They had both lost someone they loved deeply, and Chris' family was also struggling through their son's imprisonment and trial. The teenagers' families had once been so close, but now Emily's mother had become bitter and vindictive, while her father sought comfort from Chris' mother.

Chris was left to deal with the aftermath of Emily's death. I don't agree with his actions at all. He should have informed her parents that their daughter was hurting and in need of help. No matter how much he loved Emily, he could have said no to her. He should not have helped her kill herself. Chris must change in order to survive in prison and to come to terms with his decision to assist in the suicide. He struggles to move forward with his life and to find some belief to hold onto.

I've been seeing a plethora of reviews stating that Emily's suicidal tendencies were irritating and that she needed to "snap out of it" and so on. However, one must consider that she was sexually assaulted at the tender age of nine, kept this trauma to herself, and had to carry it with her throughout her life. This is an incredibly difficult burden to bear, especially for someone so young.

Evidently, anyone who deems Emily as self-centered and bothersome has never grappled with depression. Depression is an extremely debilitating condition that can make a person lose all hope. I'm not advocating for suicide as a solution, but it is a very real and often overlooked issue. Loved ones frequently fail to notice the warning signs, especially when someone is adept at concealing them.

The reason I awarded this book a mere one star is that I absolutely loathed it...primarily because of Chris and the fact that he was acquitted.

I understand that he might not have known how to respond when his girlfriend disclosed her suicidal thoughts. I don't hold him entirely accountable for not seeking help, as it can be a terrifying situation, especially for a teenager. But was it a wise decision? Certainly not. He should have informed someone (and not brought a loaded gun to the carousel like a fool). Emily was physically incapable of pulling the trigger herself and pleaded with him for assistance. We'll never truly know if she fired the shot or if he did, but one thing is certain: she would still be alive and receiving the necessary help if he hadn't brought a loaded gun in the first place.

But the real reason I despised Chris...was his coercive behavior when it came to sex. He was constantly pressuring Emily to have sex, becoming angry and even calling her a tease when she declined. He was unaware that she had been sexually assaulted as a child, but when your partner says no, you should stop. He was completely lacking in understanding and always seemed to lash out when he didn't get what he believed he was entitled to. I find it hard to believe that he loved her as deeply as he claimed when he treated her in such a manner.

Examples of Chris's abhorrent behavior as a boyfriend and a person include:

"He'd yelled at her when she pulled away; once he had even called her a cocktease."

"'No.' Emily tugged at the collar of Chris's shirt. 'No' she repeated, and when his hands held her tighter, she pinched his neck. 'No!' She yelled, rolling him off her with an unholy shove. 'I said no' she panted...'I didn't think you meant it,' he said."

"...and he'd even rehearsed the things he'd say to Emily to get her to sleep with him."