
I found this a very powerful read. It was such a raw and honest account that it was heartbreaking to read at times. I connected to Val immediately and found it interesting to have the story told from her point of view – having her be the girlfriend of the shooter gave the story a unique feel. I found it very insightful watching her grapple with her feelings towards the Nick she remembered and the reality of what he had done.
Jennifer Brown has a lovely writing style – it’s very accessible and I found myself flying through the book. She uses flashbacks and newspaper articles to bring the past to light and this works superbly – by the time you get to the shooting you really feel for all the characters which makes it even more devastating. I liked that you got to see Nick from Val’s point of view to show that a real person was behind the shooting - even if that makes it even more horrifying and heartbreaking.
I found Val’s journey to be a rollercoaster ride of emotion – the book is very character driven and focuses on Val’s need to overcome/accept what has happened and forgive her role in it so she can move on with her life. She is a brilliantly crafted character – a kind of warts and all approach. I found this extended to the other characters as well – I found their reactions to be realistic – the hate, anger, fear, the need to blame or hold someone accountable and ultimately forgiveness. I think it was her father’s reaction that was the most devastating. It felt realistic though, even if I did spend most of the book wishing he’d be different.
This is definitely a book that will stay with me. Val felt very real to me and I’d love to see how she’s getting on in the future.

6 comments:
This looks so good. It reminds me a little of "We Need to Talk About Kevin," which was also really good. I am definitely adding this to my TBR list.
This sounds amazing. I definitely need to read it. Fantastic review, Sammee!
Fantastic review! It sounds like a haunting and great read.
Hate List is definitely on my wish list. Loved your review, this books sounds incredible!
Great review! Everytime I read another glowing review of this book, I just get the urge to read it! I bought it a while ago and I have really high hopes for it, now all I need is the time to read it! But aah, can't wait!
Great review Sammee. This book is definitely amazing, and one I'm still thinking about!
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