5.0 out of 5 based on 1 reviews. – Customer review on 12/09/2008

Accurately reviewing this book is incredibly difficult. It is incredibly well written and one of the most challenging books I have ever read. As such, I feel to give it anything less than 5 stars would be unfair to the author. That being said, this book is in no way enjoyable. The theme of child abuse is constant through out the book, and it also explores the after effects of this abuse in the lives of the children involved. As such, it is a traumatic read and it took me quite a while to finish the book.

As mentioned, it is challenging. Heim in no way supports or excuses child abuse, but the story is written from the perspective of the children involved so in some cases the relationship between the child and the abuser is almost a romance. There are parts of the book which would have been sweet and romantic and sensual had the characters both been adults, but as they are not, you come crashing back down to the realisation that you are reading about child abuse and it again becomes horrifying.

A brilliant and challenging book, but as explained, not enjoyable. You put it down a huge range of contradictory emotions. An intense read, for sure. A big warning, though, to those who may not handle the subject material well - this may not be the book for you.