Such A Pretty Girl

Reader reviewed by Kaycee Joy

Meredith's father was given a 9 year sentence in prison, but only served 3. He's back and she wants him gone more than anything. Not only does her mother remain married to the monster, but she invites him back into the home. Despite the parole violations and the groping, Meredith knows it won't be enough to send him away long enough for her to turn eighteen. She must depend on neighbors and other victims of her fathers' to stay strong enough to deal with this unimaginable struggle.
Anyone who enjoys hearing a powerful but heartbreaking stuggle of abuse and recovery would enjoy Meredith's story. I enjoyed the book very much, it was also very easy and short read.

Reader reviewed by Jessica

After Meredith's father is released from prison after being arrested for abusing her and other boys and girls in her community, he is brought back to her house with the rule that he is not allowed to be left alone with her. Her mother turns a blind eye to Meredith and her anxiety because of her "love" towards Meredith's father. Blinded by this, she cannot see the stress and fear that Meredith carries now that her father is back home with them.

Through an intense novel of terrifying moments and shockingly open abuse, Laura Wiess tells the story of Meredith and offers an inside look into the life of an abused teen who no one seems to worry about. This is an amazing novel, written in passionate words and strong language which all should read.

Reader reviewed by Writer's Block Reviews

When Meredith testified to have her dad sent to jail, he was supposed to serve 9 years. This meant Meredith had 9 years of safety and could move away when she turned 18. She never thought that her dad would get out in only 3 years for "good behavior". So Meredith is stuck at home with a mother that doesn't believe her and a father who is about to get out of prison. She has two friends in which she can confide; the wheelchair-ridden, Andy, who is her best friend and the guy she is in love with and there is also a retired cop in the same apartment complex, Nigel, who wants Meredith's dad put back in jail. Each friend is trying to help her in the only way that they know how. There is also her grandmother, Leah Louisa, who is the mayor and wants Meredith to live with her. But, if Meredith lives with her, will she be able to save others that is at her father's grasp?

This book is a gripping and powerful novel. All of the characters are so realistic that it is scary at times. There are also flashbacks in the book that are just as enthralling and telling of the story and how it got to where it is. Even though this book is honest, it's not too graphic. You understand why Meredith tries to run away. Then, when she comes back to help save others, you appreciate her. She's just a scared 15 year-old trying to take on more of the world than anyone should, much less someone her age. Laura is an amazing writer and is treading in water that is rarely touched. She did a wonderful job making you believe these characters. This is an earnest book that should be picked up!