Great but very dark and depressing

It was interesting to see the aspect of grooming from a victims perspective that is not the norm. Engaging but at the same time many horrible scenes that were hard to stomach.

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3 people found this helpful

WOW

A truely confronting book that can be hard to read at times and triggers so many emotions!!

cannot recommend enough!

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Thought provoking. Excellent discussion book.

I couldn’t stop reading the first half of the book. The second half was a little disappointing given how good the first half was. It was both fascinating and frustrating having the narrator defending her abuser so vehemently. It would be a great book to discuss with others as there are so many provocative moments in the tale.
The voice narration was excellent. I hope that she does other audible books in the future.

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Compelling and challenging

This is an excellent book and a must read in the time of post-#metoo.

The narrative challenged me and compelled me along.

Highly recommended.

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HAUNTING AND NECESSITY

NUANCED. UNCOMFORTABLE. POWERFUL. BOLD.
That’s how this book was described. This book is nothing short of that description. We follow Vanessa when she was just 15 years as she is sexually assaulted by Mr Strane - her English teacher. Flash forward 17 years on, we see their story develop and how the trauma has drastically impacted her life. Being sexually harassed or sexually assaulted is something that sticks with you. You start to see the persons face everywhere. Paranoia becomes second nature to you. You’re constantly looking over your shoulder. Vanessa’s story points that out too. A reality for so many of us women. It also highlights the relationship a victim can have with their abuser. And how that can be such a complex and gut wrenching relationship to have. In this book, she comes to terms with the fact that what she thought was the greatest love story ever, turned out to be nothing more than a man taking advantage of younger girls and abusing his power. It’s a sickly world, but nonetheless this is a reality many of us live with. Russell’s stunning debut novel was excellent. Her writing is captivating and I found myself unable to put this book down. This is the kind of book that will make you think about your own experiences from different angels. This is the kind of book that will haunt you and that you’ll catch yourself thinking about years from now. In a time where standing in solidarity with one another and believing sexual assault victims when they become brave enough to tell their story, this book has never been more crucial and vital. A must read for all!

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Wonderful

Beautifully written and expertly narrated, this work will stay with you even if you have no experience of the subject matter. The self examination of the main character is poetic and thoughtful, so much so that I wondered at myself for not doing more deep diving into my own psyche. The time you spend with this work will not be wasted.

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Heartbreaking Captivating

This was a beautifully written depiction of a terribly sad tale. I completely get why a lot of reviews say this is a controversial story, which makes it even better in my opinion. Starts interesting conversations about important topics.

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unbelievable

the story, the narrator, everything
if you rate a book on its skillful writing, and its ability to evoke emotion and feeling, whether good or bad, then this is one of the most amazing books you will read. It will haunt me though. The manipulative nature of abuse was disturbing as was the way the victim understood it and so many times while listening I found my fists clenched wanting to punch the guy in the face repeatedly. again this was testament to the writer's ability to take me there. Thank you, I'm moved, disturbed, angry, sympathetic and more. well written

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3 people found this helpful

Brilliant

What an incredible novel. It is beautifully written and deeply emotional. Grace Gummer’s narration is phenomenal!

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Incredible

This was an extremely addictive book. The author has written each time period with such compassion and insight. The narrator has done a brilliant job of bringing Vanessa to life. I think everyone will find a little of themselves somewhere in this story. Highly recommend

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