Seventeen-year-old Hadley appears to have everything—a wealthy dad who donates to the school, a mother who is president of the PTA, a beautiful home and a promising college future. But the secret of her life-shattering abuse is well kept. As she believes, “We’re a rich white family. No one is going to believe me.”
Hadley continues to take her father’s tyrannical physical and mental abuse—and endure her mother’s drinking—in order to protect her younger sister Lila, who still can't quite grasp what's wrong. But when Hadley begins to see Charlie—even though dating is strictly against her father’s edicts—her life begins to change in many ways. Her father’s rage escalates, her future (and Lila’s) looks more uncertain, and eventually, Charlie discovers her secret and calls Child Protective Services.
Things quickly spiral out of control. Afraid to admit the abuse, Hadley dreams up a solution in her head—one that leads to the book’s shocking climax.
Told in alternating chapters titled “Then” and “Now,” Hadley’s chilling present and uncertain future come together by the end of this heartbreaking, powerful debut novel. Author Amy Giles’ honest and vivid portrayals of abuse, a suicide attempt and alcoholism are balanced by Hadley’s protective love for her sister and her longing to be loved. A painful, powerful and necessary read that is tinged with hope.
