Purchased Amazon March 7, 2022

Gruelling Story

WARNING. This story features a child/young adult being subjected to verbal, emotional, physical and sexual abuse. Ryan's teacher spots evidence of physical abuse and the authorities are brought in. Unfortunately, the investigation stops with the arrest of his father and yet, as this harrowing story shows, it isn't always so straightforward. A disturbing examination of how such an upbringing can affect its victims, this is well-written and thought-provoking, and only the hanging ending left me unsatisfied. ( )

"Only the brave find hope in a second chance."

Wow. Just. Wow. This was such an emotional read and one that totally wrecked me!

Ryan Hudson has it rough. An abusive family who, at every turn, makes him feel like he's to blame for it all. Manipulated by guilt, humiliation and threat of his secrets being broadcast for all to see, Ryan sees no way out. A scholarship might be an answer to his prayers. But every time things start looking up for him, his family has a way of reminding him of who he is and where he came from. Finally some distance from them gives a promise of a new beginning, of love and happiness, of a future he always dreamed of having. But, once again, he realizes his past leaves him in control of nothing. Until friends bring him in to their world -a world of control - of both asserting it and surrendering it. Control. Perfect.

As I said in the beginning, this one totally wrecked me. His family is just so awful and manipulative. My heart broke for Ryan and I so wanted him to get everything he ever wanted. This book is full of triggers so if you are sensitive to sexual, physical and emotional abuse, then tread carefully, or take a pass. But, as difficult as this was to read, solely because of how my chest hurt for Ryan, I cannot wait for book 2. Ryan's gonna be awesome! ( )