Review Detail

Reader reviewed by Kate

This is the first book I read by Sarah Dessen. Though I'm older now, I still don't regret reading it a younger age-- it truly and really opened my eyes to another side of the world.

In the book, Caitlin is abused by her boyfriend, Rogerson. She hides this fact from everyone, especially when her family is consumed with her older sister's running away. The first time I read this, I don't think I really grasped the concept of why Caitlin couldn't just leave her boyfriend and get help. Now, reading it again, I realize that it isn't so easy.

Though this book is much different from Sarah's others, it still has her beautiful, well-written style and flair. Sarah captures the teenage girl voice better than any author I have found. Each of her books has many lessons to be taken away-- but this book especially. From this I learned that people are not always what they seem, and promises are not always fulfilled. Caitlin's voice was one that gave me chills as I was reading, even after multiple reads. The suspense and guessing is flawless-- just enough to keep the reader wanting more. Though Caitlin's future is uncertain by the end of the story, she is a character that you will continue to wonder about and hope for. Her story is like so many others that it is hard to turn away without feeling compassion and sympathy. Becoming strong and knowing your limits are all connected, which Caitlin learns.

I loved this book. I would recommend it to anyone.